ANTEQUERA MALAGA

Antequera is known for its convents, churches and elegant mansions, which show various architectural influences. It is easily reached by means of the good motorway from Malaga and can be visited in a day. The town is dominated by the old castle, which offers excellent views of the surrounding plains. The 16th century church of Santa Maria la Mayor, nearby, features a fine Mudejar ceiling. Dominant are the bell towers of the churches of San Sebastian and San Augustin, which combine the Mudejar and baroque styles. Outstanding is the church of EI Carmen, which has been designated a national monument. Formerly a convent, it is noted for it's rich interior and impressive wooden altar.

The discovery of prehistoric tombs in nearby caves has given the town added importance. Of the three caves here, the most important is the Dolmen de Menga. Its large cavern contains a series of stones and columns which support huge slabs that form the roof, believed to date back to circa 2500 BC.

The Parque Nacional EI Torcal de Antequera is located some 16km south of Antequera and covers an extended area of grey limestone rocks and boulders which have been weathered with time to form the most weird and wonderful shapes. There is a small information office by the car park and a magnificent view from the nearby Mirador el Ventanillo. Several walking trails among the boulders are marked by arrows.