Nerja, a charming white village located 102 km from Málaga city, spans an area of 58 km² and is home to 21,095 inhabitants known as “Nerjeños and Nerjeñas.”
The area is renowned for its crystal-clear beaches, rich history, and a perfect blend of Andalusian tradition and breathtaking landscapes. Situated in the heart of the Axarquía region of Málaga, this destination offers a unique experience that combines nature, culture, and gastronomy.
In addition to its stunning beaches, Nerja boasts treasures such as the majestic Nerja Cave, an underground complex with unique formations and prehistoric remains, and its picturesque historic center, featuring cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled squares that invite visitors to wander and discover charming corners.
Among its natural gems is the Maro Waterfall, an ideal spot to enjoy tranquility and connect with nature. But Nerja isn’t just a visual delight; it’s also a feast for the senses, thanks to its small restaurants offering the best of local cuisine, based on fresh products from the sea and the land.
Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Balcón de Europa, a viewpoint with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, or an exploration of the Natural Park of Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama, a paradise for hiking enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
With its diverse attractions, Nerja stands out as one of the most captivating and complete destinations on the Costa del Sol, a place that invites you to discover its magical charm.
MONUMENTS AND PLACES OF INTEREST IN NERJA
Nerja
- Nerja Cave: Also known as the “Natural Cathedral of the Costa del Sol”. It is located in the town of Maro, Nerja district. The cave was discovered in 1959 by five young explorers. The cave has an area of 35,484m² and currently has 3 galleries and a dozen rooms. Cave paintings have been found in the cave, including seals that could be the first art in human history.
- Balcony of Europe: In 1885, King Alfonso XII visited the area after an earthquake. Observing the damage caused by the earthquake, he was amazed by the incredible views of the sea, and baptized the viewpoint as the Balcony of Europe. The name balcony will be because this is where the European continent ends and the next would be Africa. In the same viewpoint is a life-size sculpture of King Alfonso XII.
- Ermita de las Angustias: Located on the hermitage square. It was built in 1720 in a Baroque style by Mrs. Bernarda María Alférez, owner of the sugar mill (where sugar cane is made) “San Antonio Abad”, with these revenues the construction was built. Since 1853 it belongs to the Nerja town hall. Inside it houses the image of Our Lady of Sorrows, today the patron saint of Nerja. The temple is formed by a single nave decorated with precious oil wall paintings on the dome and the walls.
- Church of El Salvador: The temple was completed in 1697. This church is rich in art and religious images for its size. A peculiarity is that it is one of the few temples in the world that houses images of the three main archangels: Miguel, Gabriel and Raphael.
- Nerja History Museum: Located in the Plaza de España. Interactive museum and ideal place to learn the history of the town from prehistory to the 20th century. Structured on two floors and a basement with hundreds of works of art, informational posters, and archaeological pieces , it makes this space the best place to start your visit to the town.
- Church of San Miguel: Located in the Plaza de Andalucía. The baroque temple with Mudejar elements was built in the 17th century. In its time it was built on the edge of the town but is currently in the center due to the expansion of the town.
- Boat of Chanquete: The boat La Dorada was used to record the youth series called “Verano Azul” in 1981 where young people have adventures with their friend Chanquete.
- Statue of Chanquete: In 2019 the Chanquete statue was erected looking out to sea where the “Verano Azul” series was recorded, a character played by the actor Antonio Ferrandis.
- Torre de la Miel
Maro
- Iglesia de las Maravillas: Translated Church of wonders. Located in Maro near the waterfall. It is a small church of simple construction built in the seventeenth century but has been reformed and restored in 1887. Formed by a single nave where inside it houses the patron saint of Maro: La Virgen de las Maravillas.
- Ingenio de San Antonio Abad: San Antonio Abad sugar mill. The province of Malaga had a multitude of sugar factories. In Maro one is preserved, only some of its walls remain and part of the water supply channel that led the water from the screeching river to the factory through ditches and the Sidro aqueduct. Currently the city council uses the enclosure as a municipal warehouse.
- Aqueduct of the Eagle: It is a civil structure built in the 19th century in order to transport water to the San Joaquin Sugar Factory in Maro near Nerja. The structure measures 40 meters in height formed by four floors of arches. The name comes from the fact that on top of the structure there is a double-headed eagle.
- Tower of Maro
- Hermitage of San Isidro
HISTORY AND ORIGIN OF NERJA
The origin of the name Nerja comes from the term Narixa, derived from Andalusian Arabic and Hispano-Romance, meaning “Abundant Spring.” This name reflects the natural richness and abundance of water that characterize the region.
The history of Nerja dates back thousands of years, being inhabited since prehistoric times. One of the earliest testimonies of human presence in Nerja is the Nerja Caves, discovered in 1959. These caves contain rock paintings dating back over 42,000 years, making them one of the most important Paleolithic sites in Europe. In addition to the paintings, archaeological remains show how the area’s earliest inhabitants used the caves as a shelter and ceremonial space.
The Phoenicians arrived in the region around the 7th century BC, leaving a notable cultural legacy. Later, during the Roman era, Nerja became part of the colony of Detunda, as evidenced by archaeological remains found nearby, including Roman tools and villas. During this period, fishing, agriculture, and salt production were key economic activities.
With the arrival of the Arabs in the 8th century, Nerja became part of Al-Ándalus and adopted the name Narixa. This period marked the height of agricultural development, with the construction of irrigation systems and terraces, many of which are still in use today. Coastal watchtowers were also built to protect the population from enemy raids.
In 1487, Nerja was conquered by the Catholic Monarchs during the campaign to incorporate the Kingdom of Granada into the Crown of Castile. After the Reconquista, many Muslims left the region, and Christians from other parts of Spain settled in the area. During this period, Nerja’s economy focused on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of sugarcane, which remained significant until the 19th century.
In the 19th century, Nerja and its surroundings experienced notable growth due to the expansion of the sugar industry, with factories exporting their products worldwide. However, economic crises and the decline of the sugar industry in the late 19th century impacted the local economy, forcing the population to diversify into other activities such as fishing.
The discovery of the Nerja Caves in 1959 marked a turning point in the town’s history. The caves became a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world and heralding the start of tourism development in the region. From this moment on, Nerja began to transform into an international tourist destination, thanks to its beaches, warm climate, and natural beauty.
For more information about Nerja town: visit the City Council page