Málaga is hip. The Spanish city is alive and kicking. Big companies have set up in offices overlooking the sea and there is already talk of the ‘Málaga Valley’, referring to Málaga as the ‘European Silicon Valley’.
According to sources, more than 600 new companies have settled here, creating more than 20,000 jobs with salaries averaging more than €55,000 gross per year. This is the result of a major transformation into a more modern, more active, more lively and very interesting city. With plenty of culture and history.
The arrival of art
The revival began with the arrival of large museums and art centres. And little by little, the city is doing away with the idea that it is only a destination for sun, beach and sardines. Which is already great, of course, but there is more! The trend to combine work and holidays, the ‘workation’ and the digital nomads have also made their appearance. How wonderful it is to work in the morning with a view of the sea and in the afternoon and evening to enjoy the beach and a fascinating culture and all kinds of activities.
When it comes to museums, Málaga boasts both quantity (it has 38) and quality and variety. With subjects such as Semana Santa, bullfighting, football, wine and air transport. The Picasso Museum, located in a 16th century palace and the most visited museum in Andalucia, is also in Málaga. It is the result of the artist’s own wish that his work be present in his native city.
Like Picasso, Baroness Carmen Thyssen also had the dream of displaying part of her collection in Málaga. The permanent collection invites visitors on a journey through Spanish painting of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Also worth a visit!
And one of the latest acquisitions is the Centre Pompidou, which has become one of the landmarks of the port area thanks to its colourful cube. Inside, visitors take a journey through 20th and 21st century art, with some of the most important works of contemporary art in the world, including works by Frida Kahlo and Francis Bacon.
The centre invites you…
Málaga is one of the oldest cities in Europe and you can see evidence of this in several places. For example, the Alcazaba, a magnificent example of a Moorish palace-fortress, is one of the great icons and a must-see. Next to it are the remains of the Roman theatre and, a little further on, the castle of Gibralfaro. The former temporary residence of King Fernando el Católico still offers one of the most spectacular views.
While strolling through the historical centre, you will automatically arrive at the cathedral, one of the great jewels of the Spanish Renaissance. Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is known as ‘la manquita’ by the locals and although it was completed in the 18th century, one of its towers is still unfinished. And finally, those who have seen enough culture can go shopping around Calle Larios. Or simply enjoy one of the lovely terraces.
Also read: Málaga´s best roof top bars
