Day Seventeen

Malaga

I like Malaga. It is often criticised but for me it is the best example of a historic town/city trying to be attractive to the modern visitor without losing its inherent charm. Malaga has a centre which retains some of the feel of 1900 or so with polished paved streets of stone and buildings which were probably erected around that date with a number of even older buildings. The central Constitution Square is a good example of the mix.

In order to appeal to the modern tourist (but also resident) it has smartened up its harbour area with a new complex with an artistically pleasing walkway,  a promenade with boutiques and restaurants and a Pompidour Centre. Today there was an exhibition of old Seat cars. Walk to the lighthouse there and turn the corner and 50 meters away is the first beach which then stretches for a couple of kilometers.

Go back to the promenade and parallel is a very pretty park with a beautiful set of fountains with splendid tile patterns. And behind this are the two ancient monuments. It is almost a must to climb the steep hill to the top and to Castillo Gibralfaro which provides breathtaking views of the harbour and the small port (it is a commercial centre too) and the majestic hills in the distance. However, there is also the Alcazaba, a smaller set of buildings built by the Moors and still retaining much of its charm - while providing hundreds of photo-opportunities!

If you want culture there is the Picasso Museum - he was born here - or the Thyssen Museum (probably a way to avoid paying taxes). There is a free gallery of modern art (CAC) and to relax there is an old Haman or Turkish bath. We had never visited the Picasso Museum (20 years old this year) and decided to see its 260 exhibits. Housed in a modern building but with an old-fashioned courtyard it contains an interesting mix of his work.

Another stroll through the city to our station. No problem with which line or which direction. The station is the last stop between a dedicated line from Malaga Central to Fuengirola and back!

Go To Day 18 Last day in Fuengirola