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Last Updated: Aug 17th, 2009 - 19:02:51 |
The Spanish port city of Malaga has a great deal more to offer holidaymakers than its traditional 'Sun, Sea and Sangria' image would suggest.
With year round sunshine, some excellent beaches, watersports facilities, and a rich history and culture, Malaga has something to offer most visitors.
Located in the southern province of Andalusia in the south of Spain, on the Mediterranean coast, the city is home to more than half a million people and attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Founded by the Phoenicians around 3,000 years ago, Malaga was conquered by the Romans in the fourth century BC, ruled by the Visigoths from the fifth century and fell to the Moors in the eighth century, becoming an important trade centre, before becoming Christian again in 1487. In recent years the profile of the city has soared and it has become a popular destination with European tourists.
Because of its rich and turbulent past, Malaga's buildings and archaeological sites are many and varied, with many sites to visit both in and around the city for those interested in history.
Some of the highlights of historic Malaga past include the huge Baroque Cathedral, dubbed La Manquita (the one-armed woman) because of its missing east bell tower, the imposing Parador, once an old Moorish castle, now a stylish hotel, and the 11th century Moorish Alcazaba fortress and its archaeological museum.
Opened in 2003, the Picasso Museum houses an extensive collection of the Malaga-born artist's work in his lovingly restored birthplace and is located in the pretty historic centre of the city.
If there is time, try and see Castillo de Gibralfaro for a breathtaking view of the city, the interesting Interactive Museum of Music, the Centro de Arte Contemporaneo and stroll along the Paseo del Parque to the harbour.
Close to the centre of the city, La Malagueta is good for sunbathing, while the quieter beaches east of the city provide a relaxing alternative to the bustle of Malaga.
The capital of the Costa del Sol, Malaga has excellent sports, concert and arts venues, playing host to some of the world's best musicians, theatre companies, bands and sportspeople each year. Take the opportunity when visiting Malaga to listen to some traditional local or flamenco music.
With an array of nightclubs, ranging from cheap and cheerful to upscale and glamorous, and numerous good restaurants, few visitors will find themselves at a loose end in the evening.
Restaurants in Malaga serve all kinds of cuisine, but many of the best are independently-run places serving tasty Spanish dishes, tapas and fresh seafood. Cafes, bars and Moroccan-style tea houses provide a quieter alternative to the busy nightlife and good place to watch the world go by during the day.
Shoppers will delight in the colourful markets, designer clothing stores, quirky boutiques and shopping centres in Malaga.
The area around the city is home to some beautiful scenery, including the Malaga Mountains and pretty countryside dotted with attractive villages and towns. Golfers should head for one of the many impressive nearby courses.
Dozens of flights are scheduled each day between Malaga International Airport and airports across the UK and it is easy to get to the city centre by bus, train, taxi or hire car. Click to search for a cheap flight to Malaga. Plentiful accommodation in and around the city ranges from hostels to beachside apartments and luxury hotels.
Some of the annual highlights in Malaga include the Semana Santa (Easter Week) processions and the Feria de Malaga, when music, dancing, drinking and eating take place through the city streets.
Call Global Holidays on 0870 1999038 for flights and holidays to Malaga.
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