Culture of Marbella. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The history of a marvelous scenic country town is rather rich and engaging. In few years the town has turned into a luxury resort area being a recreation destination of many celebrities. The resort is famous of its awesome beaches, upscale shops and restaurants, however many tourists are attracted there with numerous unique historical landmarks and sights. The first settlement on the territory of the contemporary city was established by ancient Romans more than three and a half thousand years ago. The idea has got scientific support and the city is now explored by archeologists.

Numerous historical landmarks are located in the so called Old Town the heart of which is considered to be the Orange Square. It was established in the early Middle Ages period. The main decoration of the square is a fountain with a marvelous statuary group in its heart. The fountain complex was constructed in the 17th century. The square got its name due to dense stand of citrus trees.

An ancient building of the city council is placed not far from the square. Today the building hosts the Municipal Museum which exhibition tells the visitors about the meaningful occasions and events in the city history, its cultural traditions and the way of life of local people. The exhibition offers a rich collection of archeological artifacts discovered on the territory of the city and its suburbs. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

An ancient residence being owned by the viceroy a few centuries ago is the same significant landmark. This unique architectural landmark is executed in Gothic style and is decorated in keeping with the best traditions of the Renaissance style. The most significant religious landmark is considered to be the Church of Santa Maria de la Encarnacion.

It was built in the 17th century on the place formerly occupied with a Muslim mosque. According to historical records the age of the mosque was far more than a thousand years. Today the ancient church is the main sanctuary of the city. The Avenida del Mar street featuring graceful sculptures created by Salvador Dali will be a perfect place for hiking. The city also offers some odd landmarks and places to visit such as the Bonsai Museum. As the name of the establishment tells, the museum keeps the collection of bonsai miniature trees. The collection is the largest and most beautiful in Europe.

There are other cultural institutions in Marbella that definitely deserve your attention. For example, Museo Ralli, which focuses on Latin American and Spanish art (visual and sculptural), with a special focus on surrealism. Among the exhibits, you will find priceless works of such famous artists and sculptors as Salvador Dali, Roberto Matta, Mario Aguirre, Cesar Lopez Claro. However, connoisseurs of art will feel in the resort city "like a fish to water", because there are several large art galleries on its territory with an attractive collection of paintings and sculptures.

In Marbella, as in any other Spanish city, there are many beautiful religious attractions. This is all because of the religious nature of the local people, spending time in the Church is wonderful and peaceful leisure for them. In addition to the already mentioned Church Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnacion, there is another amazing church in Marbella- Capilla Santo Sepulcro. The small Shrine is famous not only for its beautiful sculptures of the passion of Christ, which are considered to be the most significant relics in the Church but also for the special peace that reigns inside. Despite the fact that the Church looks unremarkable from the outside, you should definitely visit it because of the rich interior decoration.

The attention of tourists who are keen on ancient fortifications is focused on Muralla del Castillo de Marbella, a monument erected by the Moors in the XI century and rebuilt in the XIV century by the Spaniards. It is noteworthy that the walls of the defensive fortress adjacent residential buildings. The fortress perfectly harmonizes with the rest of the landscape, creating a unique architectural ensemble. Another interesting structure for all travellers is Faro de Marbella, which construction was completed in 1864. The engineer who designed the lighthouse was Antonio Molina. The attraction can be seen from almost any point in the city, and the lighthouse provides amazing views of the main remarkable places of Marbella, so picturesque and attractive local beaches.

Marbella is also interesting as a cultural centre where you can see some beautiful theatrical performances. You can also do it in Centro Cultural Trapiche de Guadaiza, as well as in several art cafes, where the participants of the show present all their dancing skills. Alameda Park is an ideal place for a walk, as its floors are paved with marble and the benches are real works of art. The quiet and peaceful place is also famous for its amazing green landscapes and the amazing fountain Fuente de la Virgen del Rocio and, due to this combination, the Park is loved by all — both locals and tourists. Wonderful Paseo Maritimo promenade also deserves mention and it must be included in the list of places that are definitely worth a walk to meet the need for aesthetic pleasure.