Mudejar Route in the Axarquia
The Axarquia, in the eastern part of the province of Malaga, takes its name from an Arabic word meaning “the land to the east”. It is a region of rugged hills that drop quickly towards the Mediterranean, still dotted with small white villages that preserve clear traces of their Islamic past.
What is the Mudejar Route?
The Mudejar Route is one of the official tourist itineraries of the Axarquia and has been declared a Tourist Attraction of Andalusia. It links a series of small inland villages – none with more than a couple of thousand inhabitants – whose urban layout and architecture still reflect the long Muslim presence in the area. The reconquest of this territory was not completed until the late 15th century, and several brick minarets (the towers that once stood beside mosques) survive to this day, later incorporated into Christian churches.
The term Mudejar refers to the Muslims who remained in territory under Christian rule and to the artistic style that continued to use Islamic forms and techniques after the conquest.
Village architecture
As you leave the coast and climb into the hills, the villages appear stacked on the slopes. Streets are steep and winding, often linked by arches or covered passageways. Houses are whitewashed, adapted to the uneven terrain, and create the intimate, almost labyrinthine atmosphere typical of former Moorish settlements. This popular architecture, together with the surviving minarets, is the main reason for following the route.
Villages on the Mudejar Route
Arenas
A village with fine views of both the mountains and the sea. Inside the Church of Santa Catalina you can see interesting murals. It makes a good first stop when coming inland from the coast.
Archez
One of the smallest municipalities in the province by area. Its most important monument is the 15-metre brick minaret of the Church of the Incarnation, declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument. Behind the church a pleasant path runs parallel to the Cajula river.
Salares
A tiny village of fewer than 200 inhabitants. Highlights include the minaret of the Church of Santa Ana, the Casa Torreón from the Islamic period, and a Roman bridge.
Sedella
You enter the village through a large Andalusian-style arch. Near the entrance stands the old public laundry. A walk along Villa del Castillo and Calle Llana leads to a small square and the Church of San Andrés Apóstol.
Canillas de Aceituno
The last village on the classic route. Its central streets (especially Calle San Antonio) are attractive and often full of flowers. The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and Plaza de la Constitución in front of the town hall are the main points of interest. The village is also a starting point for walks towards El Saltillo and La Maroma, the highest peak in Malaga province (2,066 m).
Other villages worth combining
While exploring the Mudejar Route it is easy to add some of the best-known villages of the wider Axarquia:
- Frigiliana – often regarded as one of the most beautiful white villages in Spain
- Cómpeta – known for its wine and the traditional raisin-drying houses (paseros)
- Sayalonga – notable for its unusual circular cemetery
- Nerja, Torrox and Macharaviaya on or near the coast
Exploring the Mudejar Route from Malaga
The villages of the route are small and linked by winding mountain roads. A car is the most practical and enjoyable way to move between them and to combine the itinerary with other parts of the Axarquia.
Car hire: the most flexible option
Hiring a car at Malaga Airport allows you to follow the full Mudejar Route and explore the white villages of the Axarquia at your own pace.
Hire a car at Malaga Airport
Taxi or private transfer
If you prefer not to drive, a private transfer can take you to a base such as Nerja, Torrox or Cómpeta from which some of the villages can be visited.
Book a transfer from Malaga Airport*There is no need to enter credit card details or make an advance payment. We recommend booking in good time.
Frequently asked questions
What does Mudejar mean?
Mudejar refers to the Muslims who remained in territory conquered by the Christians and, by extension, to the architectural and artistic style that continued to use Islamic forms, materials and techniques under Christian rule.
Which villages are on the official Mudejar Route?
The core villages are Arenas, Archez, Salares, Sedella and Canillas de Aceituno. Several still preserve their original brick minarets.
Is the route suitable for a day trip from Malaga?
Yes. With a car you can comfortably visit most of the villages in a full day, especially if you start early and combine them with one of the better-known stops such as Frigiliana or Competa.
Are the roads difficult?
The roads are winding and sometimes narrow, as is normal in the Axarquia hills, but they are perfectly manageable with normal care. A compact car is ideal.
