Velez-Malaga Monuments and Museums
Velez-Malaga, like many other towns in the region, have a rich Moorish past. This is most evident in the small, white mountain villages of Malaga. However, in densely populated centers like Velez-Malaga, the Christians devoted considerable time to eradicate the final remnants of Muslim rule. That is why Velez-Malaga monuments and museums are Christian-dominated.
Palace of El Marques de Beniel - Once owned by Alonso Molina de Medrano - one of the King's own Counselors - who moved in after the building's completion in 1617, the palace was passed down to Gil Francisco de Molina y Junteron. Gil Francisco was incidentally the first Marques de Beniel, hence the name. Inside its premises, you can find a white marble doorway, an open gallery, coats of arms, Tuscan arches and columns, and an Imperial staircase.
Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnacion - This church, just like other buildings in town, was built using Gothic-Muldejar architecture. As mentioned earlier, Muslim structures were demolished and Christian structures were built in their stead. This, in particular, was constructed on top of a mosque.
La Casa Cervantes - Miguel de Cervantes de Saavedra, a Spanish poet and playwright who wrote the well-known classic "Don Quixote", once lived in this house. The place, which dates back to the 16th century, features a picturesque patio with a small fountain in the center.
Iglesia de San Juan Bautista - With its magnificent octagonal tower jutting skyward, it would be hard to miss this 16th century church. Housed inside this Gothic-Muldejar styled house of worship are three naves, an elaborately decorated sacristy, a grand mural of the Virgin of the Evangelists in the main altar, and a wooden sculpture of the Christ of the Vigias.
Remnants of the Arab fort - As mentioned earlier, the Christians tried to destroy all structures that reminded them of the Arab occupants. Very few remained standing. One remnant is the tower of a once majestic Arabian fort. It is found in the upper outskirts of Velez-Malaga and provides a fantastic view of the town.
These well-preserved Velez-Malaga monuments and museums should be part of your itinerary when you visit this part of the Costa del Sol. |
