Mediterran bliss: a detailed guide for a stroll in Málaga
A bit of context
Malaga's history stretches back to antiquity, with early settlements by the Phoenicians around 770 BC, who founded the city of Malaka. It was the Romans, however, who developed the city into a significant port and cultural hub. The Roman theater in Malaga, which still stands today, is a vivid reminder of this era, showcasing the architectural and cultural sophistication of the time.
Following the decline of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths took control until the arrival of the Moors in the 8th century. Under Muslim rule, Malaga became a vital Mediterranean port and a thriving center of trade and learning. Known as Mālaqa, the city flourished, with the Alcazaba fortress and the Gibralfaro castle standing as lasting symbols of this prosperous period.
The Reconquista in the 15th century brought significant change as Malaga was reclaimed by the Catholic Monarchs. This transition ushered in a new architectural era, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles into the city's fabric. The Cathedral of Malaga, often referred to as La Manquita due to its unfinished second tower, exemplifies this architectural fusion, merging Renaissance and Baroque elements.