Architectural Beauties in Velez Malaga
Velez Malaga may not be situated along the main tourist track although it is barely 5km away from Torre del Mar. It may not be very developed as a major tourist attraction but it is only 5 minutes away from the beaches.
Overview
As the Axarquia region capital, Velez Malaga is situated at the beautiful River Velez valley amidst the subtropical vegetation. Affectionately known as Velez, this city thrives mainly on agricultural produce for commercial purposes such as grapes, strawberries, sugar cane, olives and vegetables. It is here where the world famous Malaga sweet wine is produced from muscatel grapes.
History
Velez has a steep history that goes all the way back to the eras of the Carthaginians and Phoenicians. This is established by the discovered remains in this area. It is assumed that Mainake, the great Greek city, once stood at this spot. When it was under the Roman rule, Velez was called Menoba and served as the empire’s commerce and trade center; an important role at that time and age.
Then, the Moors came on to Velez as with most of Andalucia; they occupied the land for over eight centuries where Velez was called Ballix-Malaca or the Fortress of Malaga. It became an important center for culture, strategy and commerce.
A few churches can be found here with the 15th century Santa María la Mayor being the most beautiful building. It boasts of an elegant sectioned tower with a mosque minaret which reflected the conquest of the mosque by Christians. This church building was the first which was built by the Christians after conquering the Moors.
Attractions in Velez
One of the beautiful attractions in Velez is the Fortaleza which is a Moorish castle built during the 13th century. It is located at the hill top right in the midst of San Sebastián Arrabal which is the town’s oldest district. Its main tower was built as a watchtower to oversee the town. It remains in good standing today with its solid foundation and architecture. You can get some good countryside views from the Castle. Then, you have the San Marcos hospital which was established in 1487 by the Catholic Monarchs.
There are altogether 4 monasteries and convents which are architecturally artistic. They are San Francisco, Sant José, Las Carmelitas and Santa Clara.
You will also find the Santa María Church which was built in the 16th century. This was a Mudejar style construction that has a triple nave with a stunning ceiling.
The Marquises of Beniel Palace is situated at the ancient district of San Sebastián. It has been turned into a municipal building with its Mudejar style. It sports an amazing vaulted ceiling that is high above the stairwell.
San Juan Bautista church was built in the 15th century with a Mudejar style construction. It has a Berruguete Baroque retable that is very valuable.
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