Alcazaba of Málaga

Spain · Spain · Tier C

Alcazaba of Málaga, a C-tier castle in Spain

The Alcazaba of Malaga is an 11th-century Moorish palatial fortress on the slopes of Monte Gibralfaro in Malaga, southern Spain, covering some 15,000 square metres. Begun under the Hammudid dynasty probably under Yahya I around 1021, it is considered the prototype of military architecture of the taifa period, its double-walled design forcing any attacker through five successive gates. Ferdinand and Isabella captured it after a siege in 1487.

Today it contains two palace complexes -- an 11th-century Taifa palace and a Nasrid palace -- residential quarters, and Roman remains; a walled corridor links it to the higher Gibralfaro castle above.

Wikipedia

Visitor information

Location
Spain
Country
Spain
Tier
C (Worth a visit if you're already in the area)
Coordinates
36.7212, -4.4157

Frequently asked questions

Where is Alcazaba of Málaga?
Alcazaba of Málaga is in Spain, Spain (approximately 36.7212, -4.4157).
Can you visit Alcazaba of Málaga?
Yes — Alcazaba of Málaga is a recognised tourist attraction in Spain.
What tier is Alcazaba of Málaga on the Castle Atlas?
Alcazaba of Málaga is rated C tier on the Castle Atlas — Worth a visit if you're already in the area.
What can you see at Alcazaba of Málaga?
The Alcazaba of Malaga is an 11th-century Moorish palatial fortress on the slopes of Monte Gibralfaro in Malaga, southern Spain, covering some 15,000 square metres. Begun under the Hammudid dynasty probably under Yahya I around 1021, it is considered the prototype of military architecture of the taifa period, its double-walled design forcing any attacker through five successive gates. Ferdinand and Isabella captured it after a siege in 1487.

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The Castle Atlas
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Methodology

A castle here means anything Wikipedia lists as a castle — which often includes fortresses, palaces, monasteries, and châteaux. The list also includes historicist creations like Neuschwanstein, but only when their main construction was completed before the 20th century.

All castles are sorted into tiers based on nothing but the author’s vibe and whim. Feel free to rearrange them however you personally see fit. Ultimately, the criteria were not historical significance or defensive capability, but how exciting a visit there would likely be.