The Islamic presence in the province of Málaga dates back to the early 8th century when the Umayyad Caliphate expanded into the Iberian Peninsula. This period, known as Al-Andalus, saw significant cultural, economic, and architectural development. The Muslims left a lasting legacy in the region, evident in the numerous monuments, fortresses, and urban layouts that still stand today. The influence of Islamic culture is also reflected in the local cuisine, traditions, and place names.
This route combines cities such as Malaga, Antequera, and Ronda with small mountain villages.
The names, appearance, and popular architecture bring to mind the presence of the Muslims and Moriscos. An outstanding feature of Malaga is the Alcazaba Citadel (9th-11th C.), crowned by the Castle of Gibralfaro.
Antequera, known as the "heart of Andalusia," boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. The city is home to the Alcazaba Citadel (14th C.), a significant military fortress during the Muslim period. Antequera also features numerous churches, convents, and palaces from different periods, reflecting its diverse architectural heritage. The nearby natural reserve of El Torcal, famous for its unique limestone formations, adds to the city's charm.
The road to Ardales presents the traveller with many striking craggy landscapes: the Gorge of El Chorro and the Desfiladero de Los Gaitanes. This is the setting of the Ruins of Bobastro, the town which supported the Mozarab revolt against the State of Cordoba (9th-10th C.).
In Ronda, one may stop to admire part of its defences (ramparts, towers, Gate of Almocábar), its mosques (Collegiate Church of Santa María La Mayor, the Church of San Sebastián), and its Arab Baths.
From there, it is possible to visit El Burgo, Igualeja, and Parauta (the towers of their churches are minarets) or, passing through the Morisco village which rose up against Philip II, go up as far as the castles of Benadalid, which now overlooks the village's cemetery, and Gaucín.
Itinerary 2 passes through Vélez Málaga (Alcazaba Citadel) to then penetrate the picturesque villages of Axarquía, where a series of minarets were built (13th-14th C.) and can be seen at the churches of Archez, Salares, Arenas de Vélez, Corumbela, Daimalos, and Benaque.
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