Spend time in a historical Andalusian town that encompasses well-preserved buildings and structures from civilizations spanning thousands of years.
With Gothic churches, Roman baths, Baroque towers and a Moorish fortress, a visit to the town of Antequera is a journey through thousands of years of history. Spread across two hills in the Guadalhorce Valley, Antequera is also a place of dramatic scenery. Discover centuries-old churches, hike through a landscape of limestone rock formations and explore an ancient walled citadel.
Head to the historic heart of the town to explore its many centuries-old churches and buildings. These include the 16th-century Church of San Sebastian and the Church of Our Lady of Carmen, which was founded around 1513. Inside is a magnificent and elaborate Baroque altarpiece behind the main altar. Also located in the town centre are the ruins of a Roman bath complex.
Dominating the local skyline is the Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish fortress that sits on a hill. Go on a self-guided or guided tour of the citadel. Adjacent to the Alcazaba is the 16th-century Arco de Los Gigantes, a huge arch and an example of late-Renaissance architecture.
Travel further back in time by visiting the 6,500-year-old Antequera Dolmens, three prehistoric burial chambers on the outskirts of the town. Learn more about Antequera's past and the Romans, Visigoths and other civilizations that have lived here by exploring the Museum of the City of Antequera.
Drive about 11 miles (17 kilometres) south of the town to experience some of the dramatic and impressive landscapes that surround Antequera. Hike through El Torcal Natural Park, a vast protected landscape dotted with unusual natural rock formations. There are numerous walking routes radiating from the centre of the park that cover many geological and floral highlights.
At night, take your pick of the town’s many bars, cafés and taverns. Accompany your evening meal with wines from the local vineyards of the Gross Brothers Wine Company.
Reach Antequera by flying into Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport, approximately 37 miles (60 kilometres) away. From there take a taxi or rental car to your destination. To get to the medieval town by bus or train you must depart from stations in Malaga.
