GIBRALFARO MALAGA

Right above the Alcazaba stands the Castillo de Gibralfaro, crowning the hill of the same name. It was built by Yusef I of Granada at the beginning of the 14th century on a formerly Phoenician site and lighthouse from which its name was derived. Gibralfaro signifies the beacon that served to guide ships into the harbor.

This was once the scene of a three-month siege by the citizens of Malaga against the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella. The matter was concluded only when hunger led to capitulation, after which Ferdinand occupied the site while his queen took up residence in the town. All that remains today of this historic monument is a series of solid ramparts which rise majestically among dense woods of pines and eucalyptus, with the Alcazaba not far below.

It can be reached on foot, by means of a fairly arduous walk up the hill by the Alcazaba. Alternatively you could get there by horse and carriage or taxi. You can always round off with a cool drink at the nearby Parador Malaga Gibralfaro, which also offers panoramic views of the city and harbour, with landmarks such as the cathedral and bullring clearly visible.