Velez Malaga

Overview

The municipal town, Velez Malaga is the capital of the district Axarquia which is situated in the Malaga province in the Andalusia autonomous region of Spain. This is in the region Costa del Sol and is known as Valez locally. This is the largest town in this region and is the center for administration in Axarquia.  It is situated in the Rio Velez river valley and there are tropical vegetations around it. The population in this town is 60,000 and it is the fastest growing Andalusia town.

History

There are traces of presence of humans during prehistoric days. However, mention has been made in history where it is linked to the 8th century BC Phoenician colony. Romans also had settlements where they produced garum.Moors founded Vélez-Málaga after the conquest of Spain. During the 13th-14th centuries, it was one of the important cities of Granada kingdom.

Climate

The average temperatures in a year are as follows:

Maximum – 25 °C in the months of July-August
Minimum – 12 °C in January-February

Art and Culture

1.The 13th century Moorish castle – is in the town’s oldest district Arrabal de San Sebastián and is situated on a hill top. The main tower was built for guarding the town and is still in good shape. There are very good sceneries in the countryside that surrounds the castle.

2.San Marcos Hospital – was founded in 1487 by Catholic Monarchs.

3.4 convents and monasteries – are of artistic value and these are Santa Clara, Las Carmelitas, San Francisco and Sant José.

4.Santa María la Mayor Church – is a 16th century church constructed in Mudejar style.

5.Marquise of Beniel Palace – located in the San Sebastián area is constructed in Mudejar style and its ceiling is magnificent. This is at present used as a municipal building.

6.San Juan Bautista Church – is a 15th century church built in Mudejar style.

Sports and Entertainment

The theatre – Teatro Del Carmen is modern and is in the city center. A number of performance programs are held here – classical and traditional music concerts, dance – traditional and contemporary styles and reading literature. Further regular exhibitions are held in the city. There is a cinema hall in the shopping complex where English films are shown.
Business

The economy of this town is strengthened by agricultural produce – strawberries, vines, sugar cane, olives, etc. The Malaga wine produced here is sweet and is one of the most popular wines in the world.