A predominantly Roman Catholic country, Spain
abounds in churches and Malaga is no exception. Some of the
most important include:
Iglesia de Santiago: this
late 15th century place of worship features a tall Gothic-Mudéjar
style steeple and a Baroque interior. It is situated in the
Plaza de la Merced and just a few minutes away from the house
Pablo Picasso was born in. In fact, his baptismal certificate
is displayed here in this church.
Iglesia de los Santos Martires:
this “Church of the Martyred Saints” was also
founded in the late 15th century, and thus features a similar
Mudéjar style with a Baroque interior. The church is
also graced by a sculpture by Francisco Ortiz and is located
on a square called Plaza de los Mártires.
Iglesia San Felipe Neri: built
by architect José Martín Aldehuela in 1739,
the Project was financed by don Alvaro de Carvajal y Lancáster,
archdeacon of Moya. Next to the church is the Oblatos Convent,
and both together form a prominent representation of 18th
century architecture.
Iglesia
del Santo Cristo de la Salud: a 16th century architectural
monument, the altarpiece and cupola are exceptional works
of art.
Iglesia San Juan Bautista: Featuring a mixture
of architectural styles, this church was founded in the late
15th century and the steeple towering over its main entrance
was added in the late 18th century. Inside are several chapels.
Santuario de la Victoria: Found on Plaza del Santuario,
one of the church’s best features is the impressive
altar table. It was built in the late 15th century to pay
homage to the Virgin Mary who is said to have led the fighters
of the Requonquest to victory. Later in the 16th Century,
the Counts of Buenavista rebuilt the church, which now houses
the family vault in the crypt.
While in Spain for your
Spanish Language Course in Malaga you may be interested
in visiting some of these churches and so experience this
important part of Spanish culture.
