Malaga serves as both a major port and an industrial centre for the south of Spain. Having a large international airport, it is also an important gateway to the rest of the world, Malaga airport is one of the largest Airports in Spain and during 2001 handled a record 10 million passengers. See a full feature here

The Alcazabar in Malaga

Five minutes away from the cathedral is the Alcazabar, a 15th century Moorish fort. It will take you at least an hour to explore the many parts of the Alcazabar, most of which have been restored. You will see several good examples of Roman stonework, some of which have clear inscriptions. You can purchase a ticket at the entrance. On the port side of the Alcazabar there is a lift that goes to the top. There is a ticket office as you enter the lift entrance.

The Alcazabar is open every day except Mondays; summer 9.30am-8.00pm and winter 8.30am-7.00pm.

Pictured left is another photo of the Alcazabar, note the pile of Roman columns, strewn on the path. Entrance to the Alcazabar is very low and well worth the walk.

Next stop is the Castle. The easiest way to get there is by means of the number 35 bus that leaves from Paseo del Parque although you can walk from the Alcazabar. The walled corridor that joins the Alcazabar with the castle was built in 1333. It is clearly visible from the port area.

The castle stands on Monte del Faro (Lighthouse Mountain) which suggests that a lighthouse existed in a previous period. The current construction has been remodelled many times. All the same it is very impressive and the views from the top are splendid.

The Roman Theatre in Malaga

At the entrance to the Alcazabar lies a first century Roman theatre which is currently being restored. It was discovered in 1950.

The city has a wealth of historical buildings, many of which you will stumble across such as the Banco Espana building (right).

Above, The Bullring in Malaga

Roman Malaga
Behind the cathedral is the Palacio Episcopal which has been converted to a large and modern exhibition hall. There is currently a fantastic exhibition showing 'Malaga under your feet'. There are numerous rooms containing important Roman artefacts, discovered in the city. Entrance is free.

Fiestas in Malaga
When it comes to fiestas, Malaga does it in style. In the middle of August, shops close and banks reduce their staff to enable as many people as possible to join in with the August fair. During the ten days the city swells and comes alive with firework displays and carnivals. During the day the festivities are on the city centre streets where people dance and sing.

By night, the centre is empty and the party has moved to the outskirts of the city in Cortijo de Torres. This is a new area that is expanding. Here artists perform and dances and concerts go on all night. The celebration program includes something for everyone, regardless of age. Even though there is a modern fair as we know it, Malaga also offers bullfights, Flamenco dances and other more traditional celebrations. Although the fair is on for ten days, celebrations start way before this and go on right to the end, until the last firework pops.

The Christmas celebrations are among the biggest in the province with more than a million coloured light bulbs illuminating the city streets.

The Beaches of Malaga

Unusual you might imagine for a large city, Malaga also offers a long, clean beach. Each year, hundreds of thousands of holiday-makers arrive to enjoy the clear Mediterranean waters. Whatever time of year you visit Malaga, you will receive a friendly welcome.