The Plaza de la Merced may be filled with sites of historical significance, but this gorgeous, wide-open square in Málaga’s charming Old Town is as lively as ever. Visitors and locals alike know the plaza to be a favourite meeting place, a festival hot spot and a beloved locale for an evening’s relaxation.
The square takes its name from the Church and Convent of Our Lady of Mercy, which dates back to the 16th century. Unfortunately, the church did not survive the convent burnings of 1931, but the site is still commemorated on the square’s northwest corner. At the centre of the square is a large obelisk, built in the neoclassical style, which was dedicated to the memory of certain patriotic rebels from the 19th century.
A bronze statue of Pablo Picasso graces one of the plaza’s many benches, and the great artist’s birthplace has been opened up as a museum on the square. Arrive in late October and you can join in the annual birthday celebrations that take place in Picasso’s honour.
Walk to the nearby Moorish fortress, the Alcazaba. From there, you can climb the steep steps to the iconic Gibralfaro Castle, which offers marvellous views out to sea.
Catch the last rays of the sun over a cup of coffee on one of the northern side’s terraces. Take to a bar for regional sherry or beer, or simply relax on a bench for some people-watching. Locals tend to gather on the square in the early evening to swap stories, and Old Town residents stop by the fresh produce markets to pick up their groceries.
Enjoy the live music and theatre performances that often take place in the plaza. With the right timing, you might stumble across a festival as well.
The Plaza de la Merced is easily accessible on foot from elsewhere in the Old Town and by bus from further afield. Restaurants and bars on the square are open until late, and there are taxis on hand for the trip back to your hotel.
