Malaga was founded by the Phoenicians in 770 B.C. Strategically positioned on the Mediterranean Sea, Malaga was invaded by the Carthaginians, the Romans, and the Arabs. Finally, in 1487, Malaga was brought back into Spanish hands. In the 20th century, after a century of decline, Malaga started to prosper as a popular tourist destination.
Malaga's average annual temperature is 64 F, with temperatures that vary between 77 F and 86 F in the summer. The town's residents rarely see temeperatures below 57 F in winter.
Visitors to Malaga can choose from many attractions, including Pablo Picasso's home, the Roman theater, Malaga Cathedral, Sagrario and Santiago Churches, la Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, Custom and Bishop's Palaces, the Palace Marques de Valdeflores and a bullfighting ring.
Tivoli World, the city theme park, offers rides, live music and daily flamenco shows.
Malaga's traditional dish is the "ajo blanco" gazpacho, a cold vegetable soup prepared with garlic, almonds and grapes. The city has become known for its handcrafts in iron work, pottery, embroidery and esparto grass works, which can be purchased at one of many family-owned shops or local markets.
