By Linda Plummer

Another lively Andalucian city and capital of the popular Costa del Sol Málaga has, in its time, been inhabited by Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Moors.

Wide avenues and green spaces abound and, as with other major Spanish cities, it is truly steeped in history and culture.

The Citadel or La Alcazaba (8th-11th centuries) as well as being the symbol of Málaga, is one of the largest fortresses in Andalucia with and Archaelogoical Museum now located there.

Close by is the wonderful Castle of Gibralfaro (14th century), joined to the Citadel by a stretch of wall that gives superb views of Málaga and its port.

At the foot of Gibralfaro can be found the Roman Theater, La Malagueta, and the old quarter of the city.

In the center of the historic district stands the Cathedral of Málaga (16th-18th centuries), also known as La Manquita because of its unfinished tower.

Other prominent churches in the old town of Málaga include Santiago (15th-18th centuries), los Mártires, Sagroado Corazón, and Santo Cristo de la Salud.

Málaga is also the birthplace of celebrated Spanish painter Pablo Picasso and there are several galleries showing his wonderful work.

In 1983, his birthplace was declared an historic-artistic monument and, in 1991, it became the headquarters of the Picasso Foundation.

A charming and interesting city in its own right, you also have all the fantastic beaches of the ever-popular Costa del Sol close at hand.

Málaga certainly offers a fine mix so come and make the most of it!

Linda Plummer is webmistress of http://www.top-tour-of-spain.com Top Tour of Spain providing information on Spain be it for travel, food, language or living.