Alhaurin el Grande © Michelle Chaplow
Alhaurin El Grande
By Diana Sierra
Alhaurín el Grande is a residential town with a population of around 27,500. It is well connected to Málaga, Marbella and the coast. The surrounding area features modern housing developments and expanding residential areas, whilst the old town remains one of its main attractions. Its natural counterpart is nearby Alhaurín de la Torre, with which it shares historical roots and a close relationship within the Málaga area.
History
Alhaurín el Grande has a history dating back thousands of years. Remains of Neolithic settlements have been found in the wooded areas to the south-east of the town, particularly in Las Huertas Altas and near La Casa Forestal, proving that the area has been inhabited for thousands of years.
By the time the Romans arrived, the Iberian settlement in the Sierra de Mijas was already well established. The fertility of the land, the mild climate and the nearby mineral resources encouraged the development of Roman villas in the surrounding hills.
Following the Roman period, the area remained inhabited during the Visigothic era, although its development appears to have slowed. Under Islamic rule, Alhaurín el Grande regained its strategic importance, with the construction of fortifications at Torres de Fahala and the transformation of the surrounding area into a major agricultural and commercial centre. The current name derives from its Arabic toponym, whilst the suffix ‘el Grande’ was added later, following the Christian conquest, to distinguish it from the neighbouring Alhaurín de la Torre.
The fortress was almost completely destroyed following the Christian conquest, although the town itself survived. Over the centuries, Alhaurín el Grande has weathered successive periods of conflict, outbreaks of the plague and even the great Malaga earthquake of 1680. During the War of Independence (1808–1814), it was occupied by French troops for four years and, it is said, suffered heavy bombardment.
Things to see
El Molino Morisco de los Corchos
This historic watermill, dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, stands on the banks of the River Fahala. It was originally used to grind wheat and other cereals, but later became known as ‘de los Corchos’ because, between 1905 and 1941, it was used to process cork for the fruit export trade. The building and its traditional milling mechanism offer visitors a link to the agricultural and industrial past of Alhaurín el Grande. More>
Arco del Cobertizo
A historic Moorish-style arch located near the church, which serves as a tangible link to the town’s Islamic past.
Town Hall Square
The main square, home to three Roman columns unearthed nearby at the Fuente del Sol, and a spot from which to enjoy views of the surrounding valley.
Our Lady of the Incarnation Parish
The town’s main parish church, steeped in centuries of local history.
Alhaurín el Grande - Hotels
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It would not be surprising, therefore, if all traces of its long past had been regularly obliterated. But some has miraculously survived. There is the 12th Century Moorish archway, the Arcos de Cobertizo, which, while not being in any way spectacular (it stands close to the church and now leads nowhere) but at least it represents a tangible link with the past. In the small plaza in front of the town hall, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, are three Roman columns which were discovered close by at Fuente del Sol. Unlike some other villages in the hills, Alhaurín el Grande acknowledges that it has a history, and is quietly proud of it. The plaza, incidentally, has a superb view of the valley.
Golf
Alhaurín Golf Resort
The Alhaurín Golf Resort (Golf Hotel & Resort ) is a hotel and holiday complex located in Alhaurín el Grande, adjacent to a golf course offering a wide range of facilities, including sports facilities and restaurants on site.
Gastronomy
Alhaurín el Grande boasts a rich culinary tradition that reflects the flavours of Andalusia and the Guadalhorce Valley. Visitors can enjoy grilled meats and locally sourced vegetables. Among the most iconic dishes are porra malagueña (a cold tomato and bread soup), ajoblanco and roast meats.
There are also local cakes and sweets, such as borrachuelos, pestiños and almond-based treats, which are particularly popular during festivals and holidays.
Festivals
Popular festivals in Almargen are the Carnival, the Holy Week, the Three Kings Parade, May Crosses, San Antón and Our Lady of Grace. More>
Bus Service
Reaching the two Alhauríns is straightforward by public transport from Málaga, though each has its own connections. Alhaurín el Grande, slightly further inland, is also accessible by bus, typically via the M‑132 line or other regional services. Alhaurín de la Torre is served by several interurban buses, including lines M‑132, M‑133, and M‑136, which traverse the Guadalhorce valley and reach key points in the town, with journeys taking around 40 to 70 minutes.
Alhaurín el Grande is well connected to Málaga by intercity buses. Buses depart from Málaga’s main bus station, located near María Zambrano railway station, and the journey takes between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the route. Several routes, including the direct M-167B service, run several times a day. More>
Tourist Office
The Tourist Office of Alhaurín el Grande is located within the Town Hall building.
Address: Estación-apeadero de Autobuses Rotonda del Recinto Ferial, Av. Alcalde Antonio Solano, 29120 Alhaurín el Grande, Málaga.
Phone: 952 49 94 84
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 08:00 to 14:00
Next Villages
Alhaurín el Grande forms part of the Guadalhorce Valley region, alongside the neighbouring municipalities of Alhaurín de la Torre, Almogía, Álora, Cártama, Coín, Pizarra and Valle de Abdalajís.