Someone in Malaga really liked Chicago buildings in the 1880s. Chief suspect might be Jose Maria Sancha, architect and designer of Calle Larios. Or, the Chicago architecture fan might also be Sancha's colleague, Manuel Rivera. But no. Building design was by Chicago enthusiast and Spanish Architect, Eduardo Strachan Viana-Cardenas.

The street is pedestrianized to encourage strolling and shopping, especially shopping. It extends from the Constitution Square in the north to Alameda Principal in the south. It is reputed to be the most expensive street to live on in Malaga, and one of the most expensive to live on throughout Spain.

In 1880 a corporation formed by the city to fund creation of the street raised over one million pesetas. Shares were 25,000 pesetas each. Most were purchased by the Larios family. It was to no-one's surprise that the street was named for Manuel Larios. A statue of him by Mariano Benlliure is at the south end of the street.

During the time of the Second Republic the street was briefly renamed "Calle 14 de Abril" for the date of the introduction of democracy. In the Spanish civil war the street was bombed but spared much architectural damage.

Larios Street is very popular. It is lined with banks, cafes and businesses. Besides the statue of Manuel Larios there is the sculpture of the Quiromantic Dove, by Jose Sigal.

The Historic Botanical Garden of the Conception (Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion) is a lush oasis of subtropical beauty with over 150 years of history. Situated at the northern gateway to Malaga, this unique site stands out as one of Europe's few subtropical botanical gardens, boasting more than 50,000 plants from over 2,000 species. The garden features an impressive collection of palms, bamboo, aquatic plants, and other botanical treasures, all anchored by its historic core.

Established in 1855, the Conception was the creation of Jorge Loring y Oyarzabal and Amalia Heredia Livermore, prominent figures of Malaga’s 19th-century upper bourgeoisie. Jorge Loring, a successful businessman and influential politician, partnered with his wife Amalia, a cultured enthusiast of plants, books, and archaeology, to develop this estate. Their vision transformed the Conception into both a botanical haven and a repository of archaeological artifacts, including Roman sculptures and mosaics.

The design of the garden was greatly influenced by the expertise of French gardener Chamoussant and other skilled botanists. Following the financial decline of the Loring-Heredia family, the estate was acquired in 1911 by the Echevarria Azcarate family, who expanded the garden’s collection and enhanced its beauty. In 1943, the site was recognized as a historical-artistic garden and later declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.

The City of Malaga purchased the property in 1990, initiating extensive restoration work that culminated in its public opening in 1994. The garden was revitalized, blending its historic charm with modern botanical features. Spanning 55 hectares, the Conception includes a 25-hectare historical garden surrounded by thematic gardens and a natural Mediterranean forest.

The modern sections incorporate features such as the "Around the World in Eighty Trees" route, a palm tree world map, and dedicated areas for cacti, succulents, orchids, and carnivorous plants. These additions reflect a systematic approach to botanical study, enriching the garden's academic and ecological value.

Today, the Historic Botanical Garden of the Conception serves as both a serene retreat and an educational hub. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while appreciating the cultural and scientific heritage that has shaped this remarkable space.

Founded in 1971, El Pimpi is more than just a wine cellar; it’s a celebration of Malaga’s rich cultural heritage and a cornerstone of southern Spanish tradition. Nestled in an 18th-century building that rests upon an ancient Roman road, this iconic venue seamlessly blends history, gastronomy, and the vibrant spirit of Malaga.

The name "El Pimpi" pays homage to a beloved local figure who historically assisted the sailors and passengers arriving at Malaga’s port. True to its roots, the wine cellar has become a hub for Malaguenos-young and old-and an essential stop for visitors seeking an authentic taste of the city’s essence.

El Pimpi’s charm lies not only in its delectable local wines and dishes but also in its uniquely Malagueno ambiance. The establishment is a labyrinth of halls and patios, each radiating its character and inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the decor transports you to a Malaga of yesteryears, with walls adorned by memories of cultural and artistic luminaries who have graced its spaces.

In its over 50 years of existence, El Pimpi has earned its place as a meeting spot for locals and a magnet for international celebrities, all drawn to its reputation for excellence. Whether you’re savoring a glass of Malaga wine, indulging in the local cuisine, or simply soaking in the ambiance, a visit to El Pimpi is to step into the beating heart of Malaga’s tradition and hospitality.

The Malaga Fortress is built on a hill near the center of Malaga. As a military installation, it is ideally situated. It overlooks both the city below and the sea. It is enclosed by two massive walls of stone. It was also attached to the city ramparts and it has strategically located defensive towers.

The outer fortress is accessed by the Vault Gate. The gate was designed to double back on itself, making it difficult for intruders to enter. These days, however, visitors may use the elevator.

A pathway leads up past gardens and ornate fountains through the Gate of Columns or Tower of Christ and then turns abruptly once again with intruders in mind. The inner fortress can be reached by the Gate of the Granada Quarters, which defends the western edge of the palace. The Tower of Tribute takes care of the eastern edge.

Inside this second defensive wall is the palace itself and houses which were built on three patios in the 11th, 13th and 14th centuries. Among them are the Quarters of Granada. The Quarters would serve as residences of governors and as Royal Apartments.

The Malaga Fortress is located at the foot the Gibralfaro hill. It is connected to the Arab defenses by a walled-in passageway called Coracha. The Roman Theatre and the customs building share a space. Here is the opportunity to compare Roman, Renaissance and Arab construction together.

Arab historians claim the palace was built by 1063 by order of King Badis of the Berber Taifa of Granada. Building materials were transported to the site for general construction and the columns while the old Roman theatre supplied materials for capitals and other like uses.

Ferdinand and Isabella seized Malaga in 1487 by one of the longest sieges of the Reconquest. They entered the fortress and raised their royal standard at the Tower of Tribute. That was the day Spain became Spain.

This castle is an ancient fortress resting on top of the Gibralfaro Hill. The peak is 131 meters high and offers spectacular views of the city of Malaga and the Mediterranean Sea. The image of the structure is depicted on the seal and flag of Malaga City.

The Moors erected the fortress near an old lighthouse constructed by the Phoenicians. The name Gibralfaro comes from 'gabel' which means rock in Arabic and 'faro' meaning lighthouse in Greek. Abd-al-Rahman III, the Caliph of Cordoba commissioned the construction of a castle at the site. Yusef I, the Sultan of Grenada, built additional structures including a walled passage that connects the castle with the Alcazaba, in the 14th century.

The Christian monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, laid siege to the castle for three months. The siege ended only when hunger forced the Moorish armies to surrender. This was the first time that both armies used gunpowder. After victory, Ferdinand stayed at the castle while Isabella remained in the city.

Today visitors can reach the castle by bus, taxi or by climbing the steps to the summit. They can only see the ruins of the castle and the mosque that once stood at the location. There are several bread ovens and wells within the property. The old gunpowder room now houses an information center and there is a small one-room museum with exhibits that tell the once glorious tale of the castle.

Why You Should Visit:
Excellent attraction not just for history buffs but for anyone wanting to get the best views of this beautiful city and the sea.
Another advantage of starting any historic endeavor at this castle is that you are then able to work your way down the hill (public footpath) to the next phase of historic attractions.

Tip:
The site is perhaps best experienced by walking around the walls which can sometimes be high and often unprotected, as well as narrow – so do be patient and do take care. Taking young children onto the walls is not a very good idea, or if you do, make sure to permanently hold on to them... and tightly.

Malaga Cathedral has the nickname, "La Manquita" or "the One-armed Lady." The "arms" of the Cathedral are its towers. The north tower of the cathedral is 276 feet high. The south tower is unfinished. A plaque at the stunted south tower explains why. The funds earmarked for the tower were given to the American revolutionaries instead.

This windfall for the Americans occurred through the good offices of Luis de Unzaga, who was governor of what is now Louisiana, with connections to King Carlos III of Spain. So, the cathedral has been short-armed since at least 1776. Groundbreaking for the cathedral took place in 1528. It was considered finished in 1782.

The cathedral is designed by Diego de Siloe in the Renaissance tradition, inside and out. De Siloe learned the Italian Renaissance styles in Naples in 1517. He combined these elements with Spanish Gothic and Arab architectural motifs. The cathedral has a nave and two aisles. The stalls of the choir are the work of Pedro de Mena.

The facade of the cathedral differs from the rest of the building in that it is in Baroque style. It is in two levels. There are three arches on the lower level with portals flanked by marble columns. Medallions above the doors represent the patron saints of Malaga, Cyriacus and Paula and the Annunciation of the Virgin.

Why You Should Visit:
Richly decorated and architecturally interesting. Very interesting chapels all around inside and the views from the bell tower over the city and beyond should definitely not be missed if you are fit.