FRIGILIANA

Frigiliana is located just 6 kilometres inland north of Nerja and lies at an altitude of 435 metres on the scenic Route of Sun and Wine (La Ruta de sol y vino"), and has a population of around 3,000. Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara mountain range, Frigiliana is an extremely pretty village which has received several awards for conservation and beauty. It enjoys spectacular countryside as well as wonderful sea views and good access to the coast.

Frigiliana consists of two adjoining centres. One of Moorish and Medieval origin and the other constructed recently whilst imitating the architectural style of the old village. Between the two districts there are two interesting buildings; the former granary built in 1767 and a 16th century Renaissance palace which is now a molasses factory.

Within the old sector, the narrow, winding streets are full of interesting shops and bars, and twelve mosaics by the artist Pilar Garcia Millan depict the village's history. At the high point of the town there are remains of a Moorish castle. The parish church of San Antonio is of 16th century construction and houses three excellent 17th century paintings. Treasure containing precious metals is exhibited in the sacristy.

Settlement of the area originated in prehistoric times and archaeological sites date back to 3000-1500 BC. Phoenician and Roman remains have also been discovered.

The River Higuerón irrigates the area which produces sub-tropical fruits and vegetables. The drier slopes grow olives and grapes used to make excellent sweet dry wines.

Steeped in great history this beautiful White village is a haven of tranquillity and tradition that is truly appreciated by the locals making it the most honoured town within the Axarquia province. In the 1980’s the town was awarded by the tourist department of Spain 1st prize for the most beautiful place in Spain. An early contribution to this was the law introduced by the incumbent mayor in 1971; he declared that everyone in Frigiliana must whitewash their houses once a year – a law that is still enforced today.

Due to its unrivalled charm Frigiliana attracts a vast number of tourists during the summer months. Sunny summer days can be spent enjoying a light refreshment in one of its numerous bars and cafes, taking in the sights of some of its enduring processions and fiestas or exploring the area by taking a walk through olive groves, avocado plantations and lines of almond trees.

The village is a tangle of narrow cobbled streets lined by whitewashed houses, their wrought-iron balconies filled with planters of brilliant red geraniums. Small plazas provide shady seating while the village bars are popular with visitors who come here to taste the locally produced wine. There are also several excellent shops selling pottery and ceramics, including decorative plates with their distinctive Arab design.Frigiliana is best explored by foot.

There are several buses a day that run from Nerja or, alternatively, leave your car at the car park at the bottom of the hill. Although the village is deservedly on the coach tour circuit, thankfully it hasnt yet succumbed to the demands of mass tourism with innumerable souvenir shops and overpriced bars.

See also, guides to: Nerja, Maro, La Herradura, Torrox and Málaga.

Watch slide shows of the Area.