Malaga Alcazaba is the best preserved Alcazaba in Spain, making it one of the city’s main attractions. Alcazaba is a medieval fortress on the hill of Gibralfaro, near the Roman theatre. In this article, you will read all about visiting the Alcabaza in Malaga.
A brief history of Alcazaba in Málaga
Malaga’s Alcazaba is a Moorish fortress with foundations dating back to the 9th century. The fort was built by Caliph Abdul Rahman I as a defensive structure on the ruins of Rome. In the 11th century, the fortress was further expanded. The Alcazaba had the function of protecting the city from external enemies and was therefore built at a strategic point at the foot of the Gibralfaro Mountains. In the late 14th century, the castle was added to protect the Alcazaba castle. When the Catholic royal couple conquered the city in 1487, the Alcazaba was used as a palace. Today, the Alcazaba in Malaga is a popular tourist attraction.
Visit the Alcazaba in Málaga
Made up of two walled enclosures, Malaga’s Alcazaba has a lot to offer. Think of beautiful mosaics, patios and columns. Would you like to learn more about the history of the fort during your visit to Alcazaba in Málaga? Then I recommend you to use the audio guide. You can do this by scanning the code with your phone. You can also book a guided tour. How to visit Alcazaba for free later in this article.
First wall enclosure
Inside the first enclosure (lower enclosure) we find Puerta de la Bóveda Vaída, Puerta de las Columnas and Torre del Cristo. Torre del Cristo (Tower of Christ) got its name because it was used as a chapel over the years. If you pass through the gates of Torre del Cristo and turn left, you will come to Plaza de Armas. If you turn right, you will come out at Torre del Homenaje.
Second enclosure enclosure
Inside the second enclosure (upper enclosure) we find Torre de Homenaje, Torre del Tiro, Plaza de Armas, Puerta de los cuartos de Granada, Palacio Taifa and Palacio Nazarí. Pay special attention to the irrigation system. The Moors were so good at building these that you can still find them in ponds and gardens today.
Archaeological exhibition hall
Inside the second enclosure you can also find the archaeological exhibition room. These include a collection of Roman sculptures, mosaics and remains of Moorish pottery.
View of the city from the Alcazaba
The Alcazaba offers beautiful views of the city. On one side you can see Malaga’s old town and mountains, on the other side you can see the port.
Roman Theater
If you visit the Alcazaba in Malaga, I recommend you to check out the Roman Theater as well. Built around 2,000 years ago, the theatre was accidentally discovered in 1951. Admission to the theatre is free.
Visit the Alcabaza of Málaga for free
It is possible to visit the Alcazaba of Malaga for free. Every Sunday from 2 p.m. it is free to visit the Alcazaba.
Practical info – Alcazaba Málaga
- Website: Alcabaza Málaga- Address: C/ Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga
- Rates: €3.50 for Alcabaza only. Combination ticket Alcabaza + Gibrafalo castle: €5.50Opening hours: summer 09:00 to 20:00, winter: 09:00 to 18:00