The province of Málaga offers more than just beaches, sunshine and gastronomy. It also boasts centuries of history in every corner of its territory. From ancient Roman settlements to Arab fortresses, many of its villages hold treasures from the past that you can explore by car, at your own pace and without rushing.
If you love cultural tourism or are fascinated by the remains of ancient civilisations, we suggest a road trip to discover Malaga’s Roman heritage and its Andalusian legacy, scattered throughout charming villages.
Why take this historic route by car?
The true value of this experience lies in the details that can only be discovered by travelling slowly. Some of these villages are far from large urban centres, and reaching them by public transport is complicated. With a hire car from Yellowcar, you can create your own itinerary, stop whenever you want and combine culture, gastronomy and landscapes in a single trip.
Key stops for discovering Malaga’s Roman heritage
Although Malaga city has a spectacular Roman theatre, many important remains are off the beaten track. Here are some archaeological gems you shouldn’t miss:
Cártama
Located in the Guadalhorce Valley, this municipality was one of the first Roman settlements in the region. You can still visit ruins, sections of roads and a hill with remains of the ancient Iberian-Roman city of Cárbula.
Don’t miss out on:
- The chapel of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, built on Roman ruins.
- Panoramic views of the valley with history beneath your feet.
Antequera
One of the most monumental cities in the province, where three cultures converge: Roman, Arab and Christian.
Notable Roman heritage:
- Remains of Roman villas on the outskirts.
- Thermal baths and mosaics at the City Museum.
- Prehistoric dolmens (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), although predating Rome, round off an incredible archaeological tour.
Manilva
In the western coastal area, you will find Roman ruins by the sea, such as the Roman Villa of La Duquesa, a well-preserved site with thermal baths, mosaics and the remains of an ancient salting factory.
Ideal plan: cultural visit in the morning and afternoon at the beach or wine tasting at a local winery.
Villages with Arab heritage in Malaga
The influence of Al-Andalus is still very much present in the architecture, urban planning and customs of many towns in Malaga. If you are interested in Andalusian history, be sure to include these stops on your route:
Comares
Known as ‘the balcony of the Axarquía’, this village retains its original Moorish layout, with narrow, cobbled streets.
What to see:
- Remains of an ancient fortress.
- Viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Sierra Tejeda.
- Ceramic route with Arabic symbols and legends.
Archidona
Known for its octagonal Baroque square, it was also an important Muslim city: Madinat Arxiduna. Remains of its fortress and castle are still preserved.
Complete experience:
- Cultural visit + typical breakfast with bread roll and olive oil in a local cafe.
Álora
Located in the Guadalhorce River valley, its imposing Moorish castle crowns the town. It is one of the best-preserved castles from the Muslim period in the province.
Don’t miss out on:
- The views from the keep.
- The tour through its white streets.
- Local cuisine with Andalusian influence.
Tips for your historical-cultural route
We recommend that you check the opening hours of archaeological sites and rural museums, as some are only open on weekends or public holidays.
It is also advisable to bring audio guides or cultural apps for a more complete and enriching experience.
It combines history with local gastronomy; in each town there is something typical that you can try.
A route with thousands of years of history
Exploring the Roman and Moorish heritage of Málaga offers a unique way to experience the province: far from the main tourist areas, yet close to the heart of Andalusia. In every stone, every alleyway, and every ruin, centuries of history await discovery.
With Yellowcar, you can design your own cultural route through Malaga with complete freedom. Because sometimes, traveling is also about learning… and getting emotional about what once was.