And Here We Go…

We departed from Tanzania on October 12th and arrived in Madrid on October 13th, travel time was approximately 12 hours in addition to an 8 hour layover in Doha, Qatar. Since we arrived in Doha in the middle of the night, we chose to reserve a room in the sleep lounge which included showers. It was small but very comfortable and quiet. Hence, we slept well.

After spending a night in Madrid, the following day we took the train to Malaga. Traveling by train in Spain is so convenient and uncomplicated. It truly is one of our most favorite way to move around Spain, other than walking the Camino. Seeing the country outside of the major cities gives us a more clear perspective of what life is like without the hustle and bustle.

After arriving in Malaga, we walked to our Airbnb and found it to be just as beautiful as what we saw in the pictures. Our host, Trinidad, is very attentive and responsive via texts which is always a plus if you’ve never visited a place before. Her place is within walking distance to El Centro Histórico, old town, and all the major sites to visit here in Malaga including the Museo Picasso which we will be visiting in a few days.

The day after our arrival, we walked to the Alcazaba to tour, on our own, this amazing palatial fortification during the period when this area was Muslim ruled. It was begun in the 11th century and then rebuilt multiple times in the 14th century. However, this area was previously occupied by the Phoenicians since around 600 B.C. Remains of their work have been uncovered in this location. Also, adjacent to the Alcazaba, there is a Roman theater which dates back to the 1st century. The seating and stage have been preserved very well.

From the Alcazaba, we walked up to the Castillo de Gibralfaro. As we ascended, we were able to get more amazing views of the city.

The Gibralfaro is a fortress which was built to protect the Alcazaba. It sits 433 feet above the city. The perimeter of this fortress is adapted to the land it sits on which means it is not a straight line. There are many ups and downs as you traverse the walkway which surrounds the Gibralfaro. Weapons were stored in the fortress’ Plaza de Armas to be used in the event of any attacks on the Alcazaba or fortress itself. From the Gibralfaro, you are able to see a 360 degree view of the city, sea and outlying mountains. It must have been intimidating to see all those years ago.

Upon completing our visit to the Gibralfaro, we visited the old town and the beautiful streets of this part of the city. There are many shops and restaurants to choose from as well as stunning architecture to admire. We also went out for a walk after dinner and were able to get pictures of the stain glass window adorning the Mercado Central de Atarazanas and the beautifully lit street that ends at the Plaza de la Constitución. Today was a great introduction to this beautiful seaside city.