A FEW LOVELY DAYS IN MALAGA, SEPT 2015

I've been remiss in posting blogs since I learned that had to move in January and things got a bit hectic from then til moving day April 1. Now that I'm settled in my new place, things are getting back into my usual routines of writing.  I'm finishing up old tasks and have been working on a new e-book for Hunter Publishing, a guide to the Greek Islands. And in just a few more weeks I'll be departing on another trip overseas, this time to mainly visit some of the islands as well as my friends in Athens.

First, though, I decided to post a few photos and memories of MALAGA, SPAIN, a city that I really fell in love with and would like to think I could return some day.  I spent three days there last September visiting my friends Carlos and Natalia and had a wonderful time.  Here's a few of the highlights.

My first panoramic view of the city convinced me it was going to a place I'd love to explore.

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world, first settled by the Phoenicians in about 770 BC. They called it Malaka  because of the fish that was salted at the harbor.  Later it fell into the hands of the Greeks, then the Romans until the Moors took over. It was under Islamic rule for 800 years.  So there are many ruins in Malaga which interested an archaeology buff like me.

The Roman Theatre dates from the 1st century BC

In te 8th century AD when the Muslim Arabic rule took over, the city became in important trade centre. The Moors left behind some outstanding structures, mainly the Castle of 'Gibralfaro which is connected to the Alcazaba the lower fortress and royal residence.

 The Fortress

Walking up to the Alcazaba

The Alcazaba was built on a quadrangular plan, protected by an outer and inner wall supported by towers,between which a covered walkway led up the slope to the Gibralfaro Castle.  It's an enjoyable trek up with some good panoramic views as a reward, plus a stroll through some lovely gardens.

Besides the archaeological sites of Malaga there are many other interesting places to explore.  We wandered through plazas where people were enjoying an afternoon drink of wine and tapas,  we passed by some old Churches and market squares, and down palm-lined pathways.  There are various museums including the Pablo Picasso Museum and I even had my photo taken with him!  And, we visited the old bodega (wine shop) in Malaga.  That was very interesting! Barrels and barrels of wine

 Pablo and me

 The Oldest Bodega in Malaga

Of course there were the days by the seaside as well and a trip to the nearby resort town of Bandalmadena.   It was crowded with tourists as are most of the seaside resorts near Malaga.  If you've ever visited there  you'll understand why it's a place that attracts so many tourists. I loved it!

Bandalmadena