Malaga Highlights - sights and attractions

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.