Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol (Church of Santiago Apostol), Malaga

The Church of Santiago Apóstol is one of Málaga’s oldest Christian churches and a key landmark in the historic centre. Founded shortly after the conquest of Málaga in 1487, traditionally under the patronage of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, it was built on the site of a former mosque and dedicated to Saint James the Apostle, a central symbol of the Reconquest.

Architecturally, the church reflects multiple historical layers. Its square brick tower was originally constructed as a minaret and later incorporated into the church in the 16th century. The tower still displays Almohad sebka decorative motifs, a clear reminder of its Islamic origins. Over time, the original Gothic and Mudéjar foundations were enriched with Renaissance and Baroque additions.

Inside, the church opens into three naves, adorned with significant works by Baroque painters such as Alonso Cano and Niño de Guevara. Among its treasures is a finely crafted 16th-century Plateresque chalice, distinguished by its star-shaped foot and hexagonal body. At the front of the central nave stands a monumental 18th-century Baroque gilded altarpiece. Look for the central figure of Saint James, the church’s patron saint, depicted holding a scroll and a staff.

The church also plays an important role in Málaga’s Holy Week traditions. As you face the altar, the left nave, known as the Gospel Nave, houses two venerated processional images: the Virgin of Love and Jesus the Rich, associated with the annual Holy Week tradition of releasing a prisoner. These mannequin-like figures are located in the second niche of the left nave. Another focal point of devotion is the Christ of Medinaceli, a 17th-century image honoured each year on the first Friday of March. On that day, the figure is removed from its niche, redressed, and placed on a gilded platform. Devotees kiss his feet, leave three coins, and make three wishes—of which, tradition says, only one will be granted. The Christ of Medinaceli is found in the second niche of the right nave, directly opposite the figures in the left nave.

The Church of Santiago is also closely linked to Pablo Picasso, who was baptised here on November 10, 1881. The church’s façade on Granada Street features three wide doors. The door farthest from the tower is accompanied, to its right, by a commemorative stone plaque marking the baptism. Picasso’s baptismal certificate is preserved inside, directly connecting the church to one of Málaga’s most famous sons.