Is There a Castle in Fuengirola?

The Costa del Sol is known for its beautiful beaches, but its towns and cities also hold a great deal of history and architectural wonders too. This is certainly the case in Fuengirola. So, is there a castle in Fuengirola? The answer to this question is yes! There is indeed a castle in the city of Fuengirola which dates back to the 9th century Moorish occupation of the region of Malaga, which the castle overlooks. The Fuengirola Castle is situated on the rocky mount of Byzantine, which is a natural fortress standing slightly above the surrounding area. The castle, or “mounted fort” as it is referred to by locals, was built as a castle and military stronghold and it was an important outpost that defended the Andalusian region against pirates and other invasions. The mount it stands on is known locally as “Castillo de Sohail’, it is built on the ruins of first a Roman and then Islamic site which speaks volumes about its rich history.

Fuengirola Castle: Historical Overview

The castle itself is a square fortress surrounded by four tall towers on each corner, with two entrances and a watchtower in between them. Its walls reach a maximum height of 11 metres, while its towers range from 16-21 metres tall. The castle also has three interior courtyards and it once housed a moat complete with its own drawbridge, although this was later filled in during the 20th century. The castle was at one point reconstructed during the Nasrid period, although much of its current structure dates from when it was restored in the 18th century. During that renovation works, it was expanded and its design was changed from a Moorish castle to a Hispano-Moorish style. In 1987 works to restore the castle began in order to preserve this important piece of Fuengirola’s history.

What Can You Do at Fuengirola Castle?

The area around the castle has now been turned into a park and visitors today can explore the region around it. At the entrance there is a souvenir shop and an information centre where you can find out the history of the location. Once inside, you can explore the historic castle and its reservoirs, which are still preserved today.The park area also has a playground and children’s activities like model boat sailing or horse-riding in the neighbouring stable. One especially popular activity is to walk along one of the pathways circling the castle and enjoying stunning views of Málaga Bay and the city itself. After your visit you can also take in some tapas and drinks from nearby bars or sample some local cuisine in one of many restaurants in close proximity.

What Are the Opening Hours for Fuengirola Castle?

The opening hours for Fuengirola Castle are Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 8pm — except during summer time, where the park closes at 10pm and free concerts or events may sometimes be held. The entrance fee for adults is €3 and reduced fares are available for those over 65 or children between the age of 6-18. It is worth noting that on Sundays the fee is just €1. Overall, Fuengirola Castle makes for a great visit especially with its convenient location within walking distance from downtown Fuengirola near Playa de Los Boliches. With fantastic views and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, it can serve as an educational day out for all ages to discover something about local Malaga heritage.

An Insider’s Guide to Fuengirola

Fuengirola is a coastal town located in the province of Malaga in Andalusia, Spain. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and authentic cuisine. If you’re planning to visit Fuengirola, here’s a comprehensive insider’s guide on what to see, do, and experience.

Local Attractions

Fuengirola is home to several local attractions. One of the must-see sites is the Sohail Castle, situated on top of a hill overlooking the town and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle dates back to the 10th century and offers stunning views of the town and its surroundings.

Another popular attraction is the Bioparc Fuengirola, a zoological park that focuses on the conservation of endangered species. The park houses over 200 animal species, including gorillas, tigers, and lemurs, in an environment that replicates their natural habitat.

If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, head to the Fuengirola River Park, a 16-hectare park located at the mouth of the Fuengirola River. The park features winding paths, picnic areas, and a playground, making it an ideal spot for a family day out.

Dining Spots

Fuengirola is known for its authentic cuisine, offering a variety of traditional Spanish dishes. One of the top dining spots in town is Restaurante El Tajo, located in the heart of Fuengirola. The restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, and its paella is a must-try.

Another popular restaurant is La Langosta, situated on the beachfront promenade. The restaurant’s specialty is lobsters, and it offers a variety of seafood dishes that are freshly prepared and served with local wine.

For a more casual dining experience, head to El Gallo Gourmet, a tapas bar located in the center of Fuengirola. The bar offers a wide variety of tapas, along with local wines and craft beers.

Cultural Experiences

Fuengirola boasts a rich cultural heritage, with several cultural experiences for tourists to explore. The town’s Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Fuengirola (CAC Fuengirola) is a contemporary art museum that showcases works of emerging artists from Spain and around the world.

Another cultural experience is a visit to the Roman ruins of Finca del Secretario, situated on the outskirts of town. The ruins date back to the 1st century BC and include several restored structures, including a Roman villa, thermal baths, and a wine press.

For a taste of local culture, head to the weekly market held every Tuesday at the Feria Grounds. The market is a vibrant hub of activity, selling a variety of goods ranging from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.

Local History

Fuengirola’s history dates back to Roman times, and the town has been inhabited by Phoenicians, Visigoths, and Moors over the centuries. The town’s history is reflected in its local landmarks, such as the Sohail Castle and the Roman ruins of Finca del Secretario.

Another important landmark is the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, situated in the town center. The church was built in the 18th century and features a Baroque altar and religious paintings.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to explore the town’s hidden gems, there are several off-the-beaten-path suggestions to consider. One such suggestion is a visit to the Torreblanca Park, located on the outskirts of town. The park offers panoramic views of Fuengirola and the coast, along with a playground, picnic areas, and a small lake.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is a visit to the Fuengirola Adventure Golf, a miniature golf course located on the beachfront promenade. The course features 19 holes of varying difficulty levels, making it a fun activity for families and friends.

Lastly, consider taking a boat ride from the Fuengirola Marina to the nearby town of Benalmadena. The boat ride offers stunning views of the coast, and Benalmadena is known for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions, such as the Colomares Castle and the Butterfly Park.

In conclusion, Fuengirola is a vibrant town that offers a range of activities and experiences for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Fuengirola has something for everyone. So, plan your trip to Fuengirola and immerse yourself in the town’s unique blend of Spanish heritage and modern-day attractions.