Málaga Park A Green Oasis in the Heart of the City

Málaga Park, also known as Parque de Málaga or Parque de la Alameda. It is one of the main green space attractions of the city of Málaga, Spain. It is a beautiful and spacious park that runs along the Paseo del Parque, a promenade. This enjoyable walking route connects the port with the historic center. With Malaga Park being so close to the centre, it can be visited very easily from the historic centre. The park can also be visited if you are visiting the Muelle Uno shopping complex at the port. You can pass through the park on you way to Muelle Uno.

The park was created at the end of the 19th century on land reclaimed from the sea. It boasts a rich variety of subtropical plants and trees from all over the world. In this post, we will explore the history, the life, and the activities of Málaga Park. Is Malaga Park worth visiting and should you visit it on your next trip to Málaga?

The History of Málaga Park

The origin of Málaga Park dates back more than 130 years ago to 1896. It was during this time the then Prime Minister Antonio Cánovas del Castillo passed a law to expand the port. The project also involved creating a green space on the reclaimed land as an extension of the Alameda Principal. However, the project faced many difficulties, such as funding problems, political conflicts, and technical challenges. It was not until 1899 that the city began planting trees and plants in the park. Many local gardeners and botanists helped shapped the park. Malaga Park was designed as a landscape garden, with curved lines that frame and define islands of different sizes, creating a natural and harmonious atmosphere.

Malaga Park in the historic centre of Malaga

There are many features within the park including fountains, statues, and monuments that add to its artistic and cultural value. Some of the most notable elements are:

  • The bandstand, a circular structure with a dome and columns that hosts musical performances and events.
  • The Fountain of Swans or of Genoa, a Renaissance fountain commissioned by Charles V that was originally located in the Alhambra Palace in Granada.
  • The statues of illustrious figures from Málaga, such as painter Ferrándiz, poet Salvador Rueda, Narciso Díaz de Escovar, Rubén Darío and Arturo Reyes.
  • The statue of Cánovas del Castillo, the promoter of the park, which was moved to another avenue after being damaged by a bomb in 1936.

Tranquility Within the City of Málaga

Málaga Park is not only a historical and botanical treasure, but also a lively and vibrant place where locals and visitors enjoy nature,. The park is open to the public every day from dawn to dusk. The park offers many activities and attractions for all ages and tastes, with many events during the summer months. Some of the things you can do in Málaga Park are:

  • Stroll along the paths and admire the diversity of plants and trees from all five continents. You can find more than 350 subtropical species in the park, such as palms, ficus, magnolias, jacarandas, bamboo, cacti, orchids, and roses.
  • Relax on one of the benches or under one of the pergolas and enjoy the shade and the breeze from the sea. You can also have a picnic on one of the grassy areas or visit one of the cafes or restaurants nearby.
  • Watch or join one of the many cultural events and activities that take place in the park throughout the year. You can find concerts, exhibitions, workshops, festivals, markets, and more.

Combine Malaga Park with the Historic Attractions

The great thing about Malaga Park is it can be visited quickly from the historic centre. You can easily arrive at the park within 5 minutes from the Alcazaba. My advice if you are visiting summer is to visit the park during the evening. During July and August there are many bands playing and other special events. Below are some of the best attractions in Malaga within walking distance of the park.

  • The Malaga Museum (Museo de Málaga), which houses collections of fine arts and archaeology from different periods and styles.
  • The Pompidou Centre Malaga (Centro Pompidou Málaga), which is a branch of the famous Parisian museum that showcases modern and contemporary art.
  • The Carmen Thyssen Museum (Museo Carmen Thyssen), which displays works by Spanish painters from the 19th and 20th centuries.
  • The Picasso Museum (Museo Picasso), which is dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Picasso, who was born in Málaga.
  • The Alcazaba fortress (Alcazaba de Málaga), which is an 11th-century palace-fortress built by the Moorish empire that dominates Spain for hundreds of years.
  • The Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano), which is an ancient theatre that dates back to the 1st century BC.

Malaga Park is just 10 minutes walk from most of Malaga’s attractions. Most people will be able to combine most visits with a trip to the park. During the summer months, the park is ideal for an evening stroll. During most summer months there are many activities to enjoy during the evening.

The Activities and Events Within the Park

If you are looking for some fun in Málaga Park, you can also find plenty of options to suit your preferences. Some of the activities you can do in or near Málaga Park are:

  • Rent a bike or a Segway and explore the park and its surroundings in a different way. You can also join a guided tour that will show you the highlights and the secrets of the park.
  • Take a boat ride from the port and enjoy the views of the park and the city from the sea. You can also try some water sports, such as kayaking, sailing, or jet skiing.
  • Go to the beach and soak up the sun, swim, or play some beach games. You can find several beaches near the park, such as La Malagueta, La Caleta, or Pedregalejo.
  • Try some local delicacies and specialties in one of the many bars and restaurants that are located around the park. You can find tapas, seafood, paella, gazpacho, and more.
  • Experience the nightlife and entertainment of Málaga in one of the clubs, pubs, or theatres that are close to the park. You can find live music, comedy, flamenco, and more.

Conclusion

Málaga Park is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Málaga. It is a place where history, nature, culture, and leisure come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience. A great place for an evening stroll and to enjoy the performing artists at the bandstand. Without a doubt, Malaga Park can be visited at anytime. Thanks to its proximity to the centre, there are no excuses not to visit this relaxing historic attraction.