Malaga has a population of more than half a million and a unique atmosphere. The local people are famous for their good mood which culminates during the time of the city's August Fair (Feria de Malaga). In the past this important port of the West Mediterranean was inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans and Moors. Today, Malaga still retains the importance of its harbour and a variety of cargo ships ad ferries enter into its docks every day. In the middle of the city stands the majestic Moorish fortress Alcazaba, perched on a picturesque hill-top. A number of towers and high stone walls surround the former stronghold, today turned into an archaeological museum. Enjoy the spectacular view of the castle but do not miss to enter it to see the amazing ornately carved Mudejar ceilings, the graceful Roman pottery, mosaics and Arabic pottery and various architectural details from the fortress itself. Going down from the entrance of Alcazaba you will reach the Roman Theatre, a scene of various summer concerts. On hill of 131 m above sea level, above Alcazaba and the city, is located the 14th-century Gibralfaro Castle, from where an incredible views over the city and the port reveal. It is a favourite place for relaxing walks along its panoramic terraces.
To a large scale the attractiveness of Malaga is hidden in the pleasant breezy areas for walks from Paseo Maritimo, along the main beach to the lush gardens with secluded benches and lakes with birds near Paseo del Parque, which leads to the green Alameda. Here you can see carts drawn by ponies, many flower stalls under centuries-old trees and in front of beautiful 19th-century buildings. In the north direction from Alameda is situated the market street Marques de Larios, which goes to the Plaza de la Constitucion Square. The narrow pedestrian streets crossing Marques de Larios are a labyrinth of restaurants, shops, book stores, bars, small boutiques and antique shops. Three intersections west of Marques de Larios stands the lively Pseudo-Mudejar market Atarazanas (Mercado de Atarazanas). Here you can buy quality fresh products and see a marvellous monument - the 14th-century stone arch, the only one survived from the Moorish armoury.
You should see Malaga's Cathedral on Calle Molina Larios by all means. Despite of the fact that its tower remains uncompleted because the bishop of the time gave the money to support the American war for independence, the church has a splendid, exceptionally harmonious Late Renaissance interior. The three naves are adorned by gracefully moulded domes and the thrones in the choir were created by Pedro de Mena. The blindingly white marble sculptures in the chapel right behind the main altar are most prominent art works in the cathedral. They have been made by Juan de Salazar and can be compared with the beauty of the other sculptures opposite the main entrance, created by Pisani borthers in 1802. Do not miss the fascinating El Sagrario Church at the end of the inner garden with an amazing plateresque altarpiece, a work of Juan Balmaseda, and a pretty portico, lavishly decorated in a late Gothic style.
A short stroll in north-east direction from the cathedral will lead you to another important sight of Malaga - the Museum of Pablo Picasso (Museo Picasso). The long expected museum devoted to the world-famous artist born in this city was opened in 2003. It is housed in a gracefully renovated Renaissance building - Palacio de Buenavista. The collection of 155 works of the great artist was gifted to the museum by his daughter-in-law Christine Ruiz-Picasso and his grandson Bernard. Other 89 works are added to the exhibition with a contract for a long period. Thematically related exhibitions are regularly made in the huge hall of the modern annex of Palacio de Buenavista. A cafe and a steeped in greenery patio, contribute for the pleasant atmosphere.
A five-minute walk from Museo Picasso can be found the birth house of Pablo Picasso (Casa Natal de Picasso). This is a beautiful house on a shabby square. The recently renovated interior does not tell anything about the life of the artist, but shows pottery, enlarged photographs and smaller works. The ground floor is often used for various exhibitions. CAC Malaga or Centro de Arte Contemporaneo de Malaga is the newest art gallery in the city, located in Calle Alemania. This is an active exhibition centre, created in the old building of the former stock exchange on the bank of the river. It offers a rich collection of various works by famous and young artists.
The botanical garden Finca La Concepcion is situated 7 km north of Malaga. It was opened in the middle of 19th century and shows a rich collection of palm trees and exotic plants which grow well in the mild and moist climate. The charm of the garden is emphasized by the lovely water pools surrounded by Roman statues. There is also a panoramic terrace revealing spectacular views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
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