Gibralfaro Castle was erected in the 14th century to guard the Alcazaba and its troops. Today it is one of Malaga's main attractions and from its walls you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Visitors can explore the castle or go inside the Interpretation Centre to learn more about its history.

Long considered the most impregnable fortress on the Iberian Peninsula, it has two lines of walls and eight towers. The outer wall is connected to the Coracha, zigzag walls that climb up to the hill. Meanwhile, the inner wall allows a complete tour of the perimeter of the fortress.

In the main courtyard, which is divided into two sections, is the Interpretation Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the castle through its inhabitants, highlighting the main tower, the Phoenician well and the baths. The Airón well, carved out of live rock, is 40 metres deep.

The lower part, or parade ground, used to house troop barracks and stables. The Torre Albarrana or White Tower, visible from the northeast, stands out, and still retains a cistern, outbuildings and storerooms in its interior.

A brief history

The name, Jabal-Faruk or Mount of the Lighthouse, comes from an ancient lighthouse that stood on its summit. Although with Phoenician and Roman presence, it was the Nasrid King Yusuf I who transformed it into an imposing fortress in 1340, and during the Christian Reconquest, it was converted into a temporary residence by Ferdinand the Catholic after the victory and designated as a key element in the city's coat of arms.

Find out more about this monument and other must-see places in this post about the history of Malaga through its architecture.

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