Malaga is in southern Spain, on the Costa del Sol, in the autonomous community of Andalusia. With a population of nearly 600,000, it is the sixth most populous city in Spain. It was settled by the Phoenicians around 3000 years ago, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Many have left their mark on this city. . . the Greeks, Romans, Moors, and Europeans, to name a few.
Malaga is a fascinating city. It’s not the most beautiful city we’ve ever seen, but with that said, we absolutely love it here! When I say that it’s not the most beautiful city, that doesn’t mean that it’s ugly . . . far from it. There is a lot of beauty to be found here in Malaga. But the real charm of this city goes deeper than the beauty of its buildings or streets . . . it has a “je ne sais quoi” that is simply captivating.
You would almost need to be numb not to feel it. Malaga has a magnetic quality that draws you in, and it is the type that doesn’t wear you out . . . it feeds you and has you feeling more alive and more energetic than before you arrived. It’s a combination of the winding streets, the different styles of architecture, and the cafes, museums, and shops at every turn. The locals and tourists crisscross throughout it all and there’s an expectant quality in the air – in a good way.
I liken Malaga to Miles Davis. There are many who consider Miles to be the best of the best when it comes to jazz. And there are also those who simply don’t get the sound of Mr. Davis. To the latter, his music sounds a bit discordant, as if the individual notes just don’t add up to anything melodic. The secret to listening to Miles Davis is not to listen too closely to each note. If you do, you will miss the genius of his music.
Malaga is the same way. If you focus on the appearance of each building or street, you won’t truly hear the music of Malaga. Her magic happens when you step back and just allow the city into your heart. The whole of Malaga is fascinating and filled with so much more beauty than its individual parts. And just like with Miles Davis, the rhythm of this town is pure genius and incredibly enjoyable. To connect with that rhythm, you don’t need to really study or analyze the city . . . you just let Malaga happen to you. It sounds a little bit esoteric and woo-woo, but for those who have been here, you know exactly what I’m talking about. And for those who have yet to come, well . . . now you have an approach as you walk this amazing city.
And don’t get me wrong. . . there are indeed many beautiful streets, and there are absolutely some impressive and gorgeous structures . . . it’s just that they tend to sneak up on you, in a delightful and wonderful way. Perhaps you’re strolling through town, and then out of nowhere – there’s suddenly a beautiful, majestic church right in front of you. You go from gritty to gorgeous in literally one step. It’s a remarkable journey. Malaga is also about the unexpected . . . and that sense of discovery keeps your senses alive and engaged, which helps you breathe in and appreciate what this city has to offer.
So, yes, we are quite taken with Malaga. It would be a very easy place to live and settle in to. To this traveler, finding a rhythm and routine of daily life would come naturally here, and best of all, the people of Malaga seem happy and friendly, and that is far more beautiful than any street or any building.
We hope you’ve enjoyed the photos on this page from our walks around town . . . and if you want more, please visit our Gallery Page for your viewing pleasure:
I have become addicted to your and Carla’s insights twice a week. Really enjoyed your Malaga take. No one could ”see” more than the two of you do.
Love traveling with you.