It may come as a surprise to many that this glamorous, cosmopolitan lifestyle destination on the Mediterranean also has a historic side, but yes, for all its modern homes, leafy residential areas and luxury resort hotels, Marbella has roots that go very far back.

In fact, the first visitors to this region were Phoenician seafarers from the other side of the Mediterranean, and they merged with the local Iberian population to found great ports such as Málaga and Cádiz, before a succession of Celts, Romans, Visigoths and Moors invaded the area.

Marbella and its surroundings have been inhabited since the earliest of those times, when the fish caught in these waters was cured and exported across the known world. Ancient salting ruins still attest to this economy, as do later Roman villas and early Christian churches of the 4^th century.

Soak up the atmosphere

When the first jet-set visitors came to Marbella, it was a small fishing and agricultural village of a few thousand souls and one hotel, built in the 1920s. Cobbled streets and little squares dominated the scene, as they continue to do in the beautiful historic quarter of town.

So head to this ‘Casco Antiguo’ or old town, if you want to sample a little of the traditional Marbella, with its tightly packed houses and deliciously car-free streets and squares lined with pretty Andalusian-style homes. You will also find excellent restaurants, tapas bars, cafés, pastry shops, boutiques and so much more in this romantic part of Marbella.

It’s a delight to stroll through in all seasons, day or night, and a great spot to meet up and socialise. Some of the restaurants have rooftop bar or dining areas from which to soak up the atmosphere as you look across the rooftops and down to the lively streets and terraces.

Marbella’s Old Town is an experience not to be missed, and one that is within a question of minutes from your luxurious beachside Marbella apartment in La Morera Playa. Contact us about the ultimate Marbella lifestyle within your reach.