Gibralfaro Castle could be described as a fortress within a fortress. It was built in the 14th century to reinforce the defences of the Alcazaba fortress, situated on a lower hill below this castle. It served primarily as an artillery position and a lookout point for the entire city.

The 10 best hotels in Málaga

It is connected to the Alcazaba fortress by a fortified stone corridor approximately 250 metres long. Today, the Castillo de Gibralfaro is one of the most visited sites in Málaga, particularly for the magnificent views offered from the Mirador de Gibralfaro viewpoint.

Architecture and current appearance

Gibralfaro, like the Alcazaba, is one of the best-preserved monuments of this period in the whole of Andalusia. The inner courtyards, housing quarters for soldiers and officers as well as an armoury, are protected by a double, massive wall guarded by a total of eight towers, the largest of which, the Torre Mayor, stands 17 metres high. The castle stands on cliffs that drop almost vertically to a depth of 40 metres.

Within the inner grounds, in addition to the fortifications, you can stroll through the extensive courtyards lined with cypress and stone pines.

Admission and opening hours

Gibralfaro Castle is open daily from 9.00 am to 8.00 pm; during winter, it closes at 6.00 pm.

Admission costs 7 eur, and 10 eur when combined with a ticket to the Alcazaba. Students with an ISIC card pay just 3 eur, and admission is even free every Sunday after 2.00 pm.

Official information:alcazabaygibralfaro.malaga.eu

Inside the complex, you can also visit a small museum chronicling the history of the fortress.

 

How to get there

A steep footpath, approximately 400 metres long, leads from the Alcazaba fortress to Gibralfaro Castle, but you should be prepared for a very steep climb.

Alternatively, you can travel directly to the main entrance at the highest point of the hill on bus number 35, which terminates here.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Malaga.