The Alcazaba of Malaga is a historic palace and fortress built in the eleventh and fourteenth centuries by the Hummudid Dynasty and served as Moorish rulers living quarters, without a doubt the location of the fortress has the most beautiful view of Malaga as well as a great strategic location during the Roman, Moorish and medieval century.
The Arch of Christ is one of the most notable sights of the Alcazaba, they are called that because for several years they served as a chapel and the Parade Ground which was converted into an Arabic-style garden. you can also find three courtyards as well as the Palace and an arch hallway which leads to one of the sixteenth-century towers and the Maldonado tower. The Alcazaba had 2.11 miles of buildings that were used for civilian use and 2.17 miles that were used for military purposes.
Connected to the Alcazaba is the Gibralfaro Castle, which can be reached by a scenic walkway. Together, these two landmarks provide a captivating journey through the city’s past. The Alcazaba stands as a testament to the cultural and architectural legacy of Moorish Spain, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Brief History of Alcazaba of Malaga
The Alcazaba of Malaga was built on the ruins of a Roman Fortification during the reign of Abd-al-Rahman I, who was the first Emir of Cordoba, ruled between 756-780AD, the Alcazaba was originally used as a defensive fortress against pirates, due to its location overseeing the city down to the sea and across Africa.
The fortress was rebuilt by the Sultan of Granada, Badis Al-Ziri from 1057-1063AD, the walls were fortified which led to connecting the Alcazaba to the neighbouring Castillo de Gibralfaro, over the Coracha ridge, were built in the 14th century by the Nasrid ruler Yusuf I, most of the inner palace was also refurbished, making it into a Palace, it was used as a home to several Moorish Rulers.
The Alcazaba was left to decay for several centuries and only until 1933 when restoration work began, to this day the restoration is still in progress only two of its original three walls remain and three palaces as well as over 100 towers.
Contact Information
Telephone: +34 699 75 68 64 | Official Website | Facts About Alcazaba
Opening Hours
1 November – 31 March
Monday – Sunday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
1 April- 31 October
Monday – Sunday | 9:00 AM – 20:00 PM |
Additional Opening Hours Information
The Alcazaba and Gibralfaro close 45 minutes before their last entry time, and it’s important to note that a visit to each site typically takes around one and a half hours, allowing for a leisurely exploration. Attempting to tour these attractions in less than 30 minutes is not feasible.
On Monday, the lift which allows you to go directly to the Nasrid Palaces of the Alcazaba is closed.
Admission
Ticket type | Alcazaba | Castle of Gibralfaro | Combined |
General entrance | €3,50 | €3,50 | €5,50 |
Reduced entrance* | €1,50 | €1,50 | €2,50 |
Groups | €2,50 | €2,50 | €4,00 |
Reduced entrance is for: Students, Seniors over 65 years old, Retired, Disabled at least 33% and Unemployed.
Information
- Built 10th century- 15th century
- Built by: Hammudid dynasty
- Type: Palatial fortress
- Open to the Public
- Province: Province of Málaga
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Location
Address: Calle Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga, Spain | Coordinates: 36°43′17″N 4°24′56″W
The fortress is easily accessible and is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are interested in exploring its historical significance, architecture, and the picturesque landscapes that surround it.