Alcazaba de Malaga
Hidden at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, the Alcazaba of Málaga welcomes visitors with its majestic presence. This palace fortress from the Islamic period is a labyrinth of history, waiting to be discovered. It is not only one of Málaga’s most iconic sights, but also a fascinating fusion of cultures where Roman, Arab and Renaissance influences meet. The Alcazaba was erected between 1057 and 1063 by order of the Berber king of Granada, Badis, and used materials taken from the nearby Roman theater. Later, in 1279, it became part of the Nazarite kingdom and transformed into a magnificent Arab palace. This palace was characterized by its courtyards and gardens, and rooms that exhibited a play of light and shadow typical of Granadian architecture. However, the Alcazaba was not only a palace, but also served as a military fortress with walls, towers and defenses, making it one of the most important Islamic structures in Spain. The complex also included a walled corridor called La Coracha, connecting it to the Gibralfaro Castle. At the heart of the Alcazaba is the Plaza de Armas, once the stage for artillery, now a breathtaking Arab-style courtyard. The Puerta de los Arcos is another notable feature, a gate marking the entrance to this historic treasure. Today, the Alcazaba of Málaga is not only a place of beauty, but also a witness to Spain’s rich history and cultural diversity, a must-see for any visitor to the city.