Frigiliana is one of our neighboring towns. Located in the Sierra Almijara mountain range, north of Nerja. The marvelous whitewashed houses here transmit peace and take you back to the Middle Age. Built around beautiful narrow streets, most of these are somewhat steep.
What to see in Frigiliana
he town center of Frigiliana is without a doubt one of the most well-preserved of town centers in the whole of Málaga. A perfect place to unwind thanks to a general lack of noise and cars plus the relaxed way of life that is so characteristic of the area. Here you can get away from all the stress of life in the city.
The town center of Frigiliana has been named “Conjunto Histórico Andaluz”, meaning that it is a historical site. The town center is the biggest attraction here and receives compliments by visitors on a daily basis.
Houses with immaculate façades adapted to the height and the terrain. The extreme simplicity of the façades plus the intertwined streets form a unique town center that is well worth visiting.
The town mixes streets with baileys from old walls [a testimony of andalusí (Moorish) urbanism], the baileys that are still intact can be found at “El Tunel” (The tunnel), Zacatín street, Señor street, Huerta street, Amargura street, Peñon street, Batanero street, Torreón street, Cura Soto street, Corralón street, and Inquisidor street.
The museum’s size is around 400 square meters. Here you can take a walk through the history of Frigiliana. From the Neolithic till today. There is also a temporary exposition on offer and also a modern art exposition. These offer very diverse themes and styles. There are currently 125 items on show, all of which were found in Frigiliana. These items are shown chronologically to help the visitors understand how, when and why. Perhaps the most spectacular item on show is the skull of a young boy, dating back to the Neolithic or maybe the Moorish dagger from the XVI century.
Important monuments in Frigiliana
“El Ingenio” (sugar cane factory) from the XVI century
Currently the only factory in Europe that produces sugar cane honey and also one of the most important places in Frigiliana thanks to its artistic and historic value. Known as “el Ingenio”, this factory still uses the same machines that they used back in 1909 to make Frigiliana’s star product, sugar cane honey.
“Fuente Vieja” (old fountain)
Walking through town you will come across what was called the “Fuente Nueva” (new fountain) which is now called “Fuente Vieja” (old fountain). It can be found at Chorruelo street and it was used during the XVII century to keep everyone in Frigiliana hydrated, including the animals.
“La Ermita del ECCE HOMO” (ECCE HOMO chapel).
Known as Christs’s chapel, a small building that was constructed during the XVII century. Here you can find a small altar with an image of Ecce Homo. From the outside, you can see a small covered porch with a small arch and a cross.
“Reales Pósitos” (royal cooperative) from the VXIII century
Built in 1767 for keeping, selling and delivering grain. The excess was saved during good years to keep up production during the bad years. The three industrial units are well differentiated and you can spot the semicircular arches that this building was known for. Nowadays it is a private space, currently used for houses.
EL TORREÓN
This building housed the grain cooperative back in the middle of the XVIII century. Here you can find a vase with the “three religions” represented on it, Christianism, Islam, Judaism. This vase is the logo of the ever so popular “Three Cultures Festival”.
Remains of the Arab castle (Lízar castle)
Located on the Sabina hill, right atop of Frigiliana. Destroyed in 1569 so it would never again become a refuge for the Moors. The outside wall can still be seen in certain parts, leading us to imagine how it could have been back in the day.
Casa del Apero (tool house)
Rebuilt in the 90’s and currently used as a cultural center, library, archeological museum, and showroom. This building used to be a warehouse for horse and grain tools back in the XVII century. The building is square, has two floors and an inside patio.
Where to eat in Frigiliana
La tienda
A charming little place where you can order good homemade cakes (I recommend the carrot cake) while you relax in this gorgeous area. It is located next to the church. The small number of tables may seem like an inconvenience but in reality just adds to the charm.
Acebuchal bar
Located out of town, and you will have to go along non-asphalted roads to get there. That said, it is well well worth it. Local food, game meat, and their own homemade bread.
Taberna del Sacristán
Located in the square just outside the San Anton church, making it a charming place. Excellent service and top quality meals. I recommend the piquillo peppers stuffed with seafood and the T-Bone.
The Garden Restaurant
VIP views all year round thanks to their covered terrace. The price may be a little high but the food and the service are excellent. To get to this restaurant you must walk a little and also go up some steps.
El casino
A place you should visit. Fantastic views and scenery. The quality-price ratio is quite good
Frigiliana tourism office.