Nerja Today

Places of Interest

San Sebastián church. The first temple was built in the early 17th century and was then rebuilt in the 19th century after being destroyed by an earthquake. It has a Latin cross floor plan and an interior composed of three naves. It also has twin belfries.

Niche of Cristo del Cardón. Local tradition is that in 1484, during the Castilian conquest, a miracle occurred, an image of Christ painted on a piece of wood saving a Christian soldier from death. Because of this, the Christ image has been venerated in different niches.

Arcos de Zapata. These are remains of the Fuente del Rey aqueduct, an eighteenth century architectural project intended to bring water from a spring at Churriana to the capital of Málaga. However, opposition from local landowners and the high costs involved meant that it was never actually used.

El Alamillo hermitage. Built in 1875, it is where Saint Francisco de Paula is venerated, and in times of drought it was the custom to carry this saint in a procession in the common belief that the rains would then arrive.

The Refugio de Torrijos. This is the house where General José María de Torrijos sought refuge upon arrival in the town when fleeing from the troops of Fernando VII. The General led an uprising in 1831 in an attempt to restore the Constitution of 1812. The general and his men sought shelter on the estate known as Hacienda de la Alquería, owned by the Count of Mollina (present-day Torrealquería). However, the General and his loyal followers were taken prisoner and, shortly afterwards, were executed by firing squad on the beaches of San Andrés in the capital, Málaga. An obelisk on Plaza Merced commemorates these events.

Local Cuisine

Local specialities include: Arroz con Castañas (Rice with chestnuts. The basic ingredients are smoked chestnuts and honey and is especially popular during Holy Week), Rosquillo (a ring-shaped pastry), Cachorreña (Soup made with bread and oranges), Caldo Poncima (Soup made with peppers, tomatoes and onions), Gachas (gruel-like soup made of flour, water and seasonings), Ensalada de Bacalao (codfish salad).

Local Fiestas

Fiestas de San Sebastián (January 20th)

Holy Week

San Juan (June 24th)