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History & Culture |
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The Phoenicians founded Malaga in the 8th century due to its prime location in the southern Mediterranean area, which would be ideal for commercial ports. Control of the city later went to the Carthaginians and then to the Romans. The Romans were responsible for turning the Malaga region into city, which later received the status of one of Rome''s confederate cities.
In 711 Malaga was captured by the Arabs, which is when the city experienced the most progress. The city wall was built, as well as Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro castle during Arab control. Malaga began exporting a range of products in the 11th century to the entire Mediterranean including Moscatel grapes and gilded ceramics.
In 1487 the Catholic reoccupation of the city changed the history and culture of Malaga entirely. There were major reforms during this time although none seemed to be able to achiece the progress that the Catholics had wanted. The city was driven into decline due to an disorganized administration, insufficient harvests, epidemics and natural disasters such as earthquakes.
In the 18th century the city started a revival, due to the discovery of America, which increased commercial activity. New factories for steel, textiles and Iron were built which turned Malaga into an industrial hub.
When Spain lost most of it''s colonies in the 19th century, the economy of Malaga declined again. The recovery started after the Spanish Civil War in 1937 and with the appearance of the tourist industry in 1950 the economy of Malaga really started to thrive.
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The City of Malaga |
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The city at the heart of the Costa del Sol offers miles of sandy beaches and a cross section of Mediterranean and Atlantic breezes. There is much culture to absorb as well. The city’s history has seen Arabic, Moorish and Roman influences that can be seen today in the monuments and landmarks that stand a testament to Malaga’s colorful past. Malaga is also a convenient starting place for your tour of the Costa del Sol and Andalucia. You can set out from here to explore Marbella, Granada, Jerez, Gibraltar or Cordoba.
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Shopping |
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Malaga is not the high fashion capital like Barcelona, or nearly as diverse as the true capital of Madrid, but what Malaga offers in the way of shopping is unique. If you are searching for the perfect gift for yourself or anyone else you will surely find it here in this charming city. Antiques, furniture, decorative ceramics, home accessories, fashion, handcrafted shawls, lace, leather goods, embroidered accessories and food products can all be as you travel through Malaga.
The most popular destination for shopping while traveling in Malaga is Centro Comercial, Rosaleda and Malaga Plaza are great places to find souvenirs, gifts, crafts, home décor, accessories and fashion. Plaza de la Constitucion is a great place to find jewelry, gifts and other fine items.
Shops in Malaga are generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and reopening at 3:30 or 4:00 p.m. through 8:00 in the evening. As with all of Spain weekend hours are limited, and many shops will not be open on Monday morning. You will however, find many of the designers and department stores offer extended hours in the city while small locally owned and operated shops close for a lengthy ''siesta'' during mid-day.
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Sightseeing |
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Before you head off to explore Gibraltar or Granada, be sure to view the magnificent sights in and around the city of Malaga. Simply strolling along the streets provides ample opportunity to admire period architecture, but do be sure to check out the following landmarks in Malaga, but be sure to bring your camera and a decent pair of walking shoes, you will certainly be glad you did!
Iglesia del Sagrario - This façade has formerly served an ancient mosque and Papal Cathedral and today remains a testament to Isabelline Gothic monumental art.
Museo de Arte Sacro - Abadia de Santa Ana- This beautiful museum is hosted in a former Episcopalian Palace and features a collection of interesting religious sculptures and paintings. Best of all admission is free.
Benahavis - This collection of restaurants is a great place to find anything you desire, while its architecture is a nod to the city''s Arabic connections. The Montemayor castle has been well preserved and is a great place to explore the city''s former bastion from the times when the Muslim Nazari dynasty ruled the lands.
Gibralfaro - This ancient Muslim castle sits high upon a ridge overlooking the city, tis beaches and bullring.
La Manquita - The picturesque Cathedral of Malaga draws many travelers to Malaga each year.
Roman Theatre - Just outside the Alcazaba are the remains of an ancient Roman theatre.
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Food & Drink |
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Perhaps the greatest event you will enjoy while traveling in Malaga is the regional gastronomy. Food throughout your travels in Spain will certainly prove to be delicious and enjoyable, but Malaga offers a palate of fresh, fried and smoked fish which is really second to none. This coastal Andalusian city offers a variety of fresh local products from almonds to asparagus, exquisite white wines, the freshest seafoods and game meats. A tour of restaurants in Malaga will evoke a fond affinity for this Mediterranean cuisine. Notably the ubiquitous Andalusian gazpacho, Malaga style fried fish, ''papanduas'' or cod omelets, and the plethora of scrumptious almond desserts including the regional specialty ''alfajor'' which is a delicate almond and nut pastry. The following restaurants deserve honorable mention for their contributions to the local cuisine of Malaga.
La Meridiana - Camino de la Cruz. For a fantastic arrangement of fresh local ingredients in innovative new recipes, try the sophisticated solarium at Le Meridiana. The wine, dessert and cigar menus simply add to the overall dining experience.
Rincon de Mata - Esparteros, 8. For authentic old-style Andalusian cuisine Rincon de Mata is the place to go. This is a beautiful place to enjoy lunch or dinner with a variety of rustic dishes.
Miramar - Avenida Pintor Sorolla, 12. This small family friendly restaurant is generally hosts locals and offers a pleasant daily menu that you can choose to enjoy on the terrace on warm days.
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