From centuries-old churches and stylish boutiques to gorgeous fountains and the flower-filled balconies of traditional homes, Marbella Old Town is a picturesque enclave in the heart of the city. Wander the ancient cobbled streets to discover historical treasures, beautiful architecture and insights into the area’s past.
The old town’s nerve center is the Plaza de Los Naranjos, or Orange Square, which is surrounded by cafés, tapas bars and whitewashed and historical buildings. Study the original stone façade of the Old Governor's House, built in 1552. It is adorned with shields and commemorative stone inscriptions, one of which dates back to 1485. This was the year the Moorish town fell back into the hands of the Catholic monarchs.
Head into the 16th-century Town Hall for its Mudejar-style carved ceiling on the upper floor and murals from 1572. Among the depictions is a scene from Christ's crucifixion. Venture into the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation, also known as the Church of St. Mary, a Baroque-style 17th-century building that houses a huge organ that took several years to install.
After enjoying some refreshments under the shade of the square’s orange trees continue your journey back into the old town's past. View the ruins of Marbella’s castle, which was built in the 11th century with stones from old Roman buildings. Tour the 15th-century Hermitage of the Holy Christ of the True Cross. Step inside Bazan Hospital, a Renaissance building from the 16th century. Today it is the home of the Museo del Grabado and its large collection of engravings and graphic art from the 15th century to the present day.
During your time in Marbella Old Town, browse the stores and boutiques for clothes, gourmet foods and souvenirs.
Marbella Old Town is easy to get to by public transportation. Many of the city's buses pass by there. If you have a rental car, it might be best to leave it at your accommodation and either walk here or come by bus or taxi. Street parking is scarce, and the fees to park in the garages can be high.
