The city of Malaga at night
Although its history dates back centuries, since the 1950s Malaga has been best-known as the gateway to the Costa de Sol, which General Franco wanted to turn into the ´´Florida of Europe´´. Most of the 13 million holidaymakers who arrive at the airport annually head straight for the beaches - all the better for those who come to enjoy this atmospheric, unspoilt and underrated city. Its cultural fortunes have been boosted immeasurably by the new Picasso museum - the artist was born here - and contemporary art centre, and with another major new art gallery to come this year, the city is finding a new identity as Andalucia´s leading cultural destination. It also benefits from a new AVE link with Madrid, so it´s no surprise that Malaga is bidding to be 2016 European Capital of Culture.
- Fact 1 - Malaga´s most famous son, Picasso, finally has a museum with his most personal works
- Fact 2 - While other Andalucian cities have their Alcazars, Malaga boasts not one but two Moorish castles
- Fact 3 - A cemetery might seem a curious tourist highlight, but this one has a fascinating history
- Fact 4 - From Hollywood to Semana Santa, nice guy actor Antonio Banderas is loyal to his beloved Malaga
- Fact 5 - Art lovers will soon be spoilt for choice in Malaga, with the 18th century to contemporary covered in two new museums
Min: 20C