The Alcazaba is Málaga’s Moorish fortress-palace, climbing the hillside right above the old town. It was built in the 11th century, on a site already used by Phoenicians and Romans, and it is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Spain.
What to see
The gates and walls
The way up winds through a series of fortified gateways and zig-zag ramps, designed to slow down attackers. Look out for Roman columns and capitals reused by the Moorish builders.
The palace
At the top, the Nasrid palace opens onto courtyards with pools, fountains and horseshoe arches – a small, quiet echo of the Alhambra in Granada.
The gardens and views
Orange trees, jasmine and bougainvillea fill the terraces, and the walls look out over the port, the cathedral and the sea.
The Roman Theatre
At the foot of the Alcazaba lies the Roman Theatre, from the 1st century BC, rediscovered in the 20th century. You can see it from the street, and the visitor centre explains its history.
Tips
- Go early in summer: the climb has little shade.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the paths are steep and paved with old stones.
- Combine with Gibralfaro Castle, linked by a walled path – a combined ticket covers both.
