Gibralfaro Castle: A Historical and Scenic Gem of Malaga

Gibralfaro Castle is a great place to visit in Malaga. This ancient fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city and the sea. It is one of the most emblematic and historic landmarks of Malaga. Whithout any doubt, it is a must-see visit for any visitor to Malaga.

In this blog, we will explore the origins, features, and attractions of the Gibralfaro Castle,. We will also share some tips on how to make the most of your visit. Due to it’s elevated position within the city, we will explain in detail how to get to the castle entrance.

The Origins of the Gibralfaro Castle Malaga

The Gibralfaro Castle has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 10th century. It was built by the Moors on the site of a former Phoenician lighthouse. This gave the castle its name: Gibralfaro means “mountain of the lighthouse” in Arabic.

The castle was originally designed to house troops and protect the lower Alcazaba, a citadel that served as the residence of the Muslim rulers of Malaga. The castle and the Alcazaba are connected by a walled corridor that runs along the hillside. However, you cannot access Gibralfaro Castle from the Alcazaba.

Gibralfaro Castle was considered one of the most impregnable fortresses on the Iberian Peninsula. This is thanks to its strategic location and its double wall and eight towers. It witnessed several battles and sieges throughout the centuries. The most notable was the Siege of Malaga in 1487. This is when the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, conquered the city after a three-month-long siege that starved the defenders into surrender.

After the Christian conquest, the castle became a military barracks and a prison, until it was declared a historical monument in 1931. Today, it is one of the most visited attractions in Malaga and a symbol of the city’s rich and diverse heritage.

The Features and Attractions of the Gibralfaro Castle

The Castle offers a lot to see and do for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the highlights of the castle that you should not miss:

• The ramparts: At this section of the castle you can walk along the ramparts and enjoy the panoramic views of the city, the port, the bullring, and the Mediterranean Sea. You should be also able to spot some of the landmarks of Malaga, such as the cathedral, the Alcazaba, and the Picasso Museum.
• The towers: The castle has eight towers, each with its own name and function. The most prominent ones are the Torre Mayor, the main tower that stands at 17 meters high and houses a water tank, and the Torre Blanca, the white tower that has a circular shape and a vaulted ceiling.
• The museum: Within the castle there is small but interesting museum that displays some of the artifacts and weapons found in the castle. There are also some models and panels that explain the history and architecture of the fortress.
• The gardens: The castle has a beautiful garden area that surrounds the museum and the towers. You can admire the variety of plants and flowers, as well as some fountains and sculptures. This area of the castle creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
• The events: The castle hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, and workshops. You can check the official website of the castle for the latest information and schedules.

The Tips for Visiting the Gibralfaro Castle

To make the most of your visit to the Gibralfaro Castle, here are some tips and recommendations that you should keep in mind:

• The opening hours: The castle is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in summer (April to October) and from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in winter (November to March). The last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
• The admission fees: The entrance fee to the castle is 3.50 euros for adults, 0.60 euros for children under 16. E trance is free for children under 6. You can also buy a combined ticket that includes the entrance to the Alcazaba for 5.50 euros. There are discounts for students, seniors, and large groups. The entrance is free on Sundays after 2:00 p.m.
• The facilities: The castle has a souvenir shop, a cafeteria, and a picnic area. There are also toilets and drinking fountains. The castle is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be difficult to access due to the uneven terrain and the stairs.

Gibralfaro Castle Málaga can be visited the same time as other attractions in Málaga. However, it might take some time to arrive at the castle and explore. I would personally recommend visiting the Castle, Alcazaba, Roman Theatre, Málaga Cathedral and the Picasso museum during a full day trip to Málaga. With all these attractions being mostly within 10 minutes walk of each other, you will be able to view the historic centre of Málaga as you move between each place you wish to visit.

How To Get To Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle isn’t quite as easy to reach as some of Malaga’s other attractions, due to its high position. However, below we have prepared the most common ways people reach the castle.

1. Walking: This is a scenic but steep route. You can start from the Plaza de la Merced and head towards the Alcazaba. From there, follow the signs up the hill to Gibralfaro Castle. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes and offers beautiful and rewarding views of the city. A great option to get some excerise and take a few photos along the way.
2. Bus: You can take the local bus number 35 from different points within the city centre. The bus will drop you off near the castle entrance. This is a convenient and cheap option if you prefer not to walk uphill.
3. Taxi: A taxi ride from the historic centre to Gibralfaro Castle is quick and easy, taking about 10 minutes. This is a good option if you’re short on time or prefer a more comfortable journey. Also, a good option if you are only visiting for the day, as it is the quickest way to get to the castle.
4. Tourist Bus: The hop-on-hop-off tourist bus also stops at Gibralfaro Castle. This can be a fun way to see other attractions in Málaga as well.

If you opt to walk up to the castle, bear in mind that it can be very hot in summer. It would be advisable to take plenty of cold water. If it is a sunny day, wear sunscreen and a hat to, protect yourself from the sun. My personal recommendation is to take a taxi. It is quick, convenient and will allow more time to explore the other wonderful sights that Malaga has to offer.

You can find out up-to-date information by visiting the Gibralfaro Castle website by clicking this link here.