Antequera

Antequera, originally known as Antikaria, is a city with a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Although it was devastated after the Germanic invasion, it flourished under Muslim rule.

In the 13th century, Antakira gained importance due to its strategic location between the Christian and Arab borders. After the conquest of Granada in 1492, the city expanded beyond its defensive walls and became a major commercial centre in the 16th and 17th centuries.

The city suffered a decrease in population in the 19th century due to epidemics and was briefly occupied by the French in 1810. However, Antequera has withstood these challenges and remains a place of great historical importance and natural beauty.

Antequera has numerous archaeological sites, as well as civil and religious architecture.

Historical Architecture

In the Alcazaba, built on Roman ruins, the Torre del Homenaje stands out, where the famous Campana de Papabellotas and the Arco de los Gigantes are located. (Map)

It is worth visiting the church of Santa Maria la Mayor (Map), from the 16th century, with its Mudejar dome and Renaissance facade (Diego de Siloe). El Portichuelo, from the 16th century, is the only chapel in the street. The church of San Sebastian (Map), from the 16th century, with a Renaissance facade (Diego de Vergara) and Baroque towers. The church of San Pedro (Map), from the Renaissance. The Palace of Escalonías (Map), a beautiful example of Italian style. The interiors of the church of Carmen (map) are spectacular (Baroque with Italian influence).

Museums and Palaces

The Nájera Palace, currently a Municipal Museum, is a splendid example of the 18th century (Map). The Encarnación convent (Map), from the 16th century, retains the charm of conventional churches. The Palace of the Marquises of the Peña de los Enamorados, from the 16th century (Map), has partially Arab architecture. The Granada gate, from the 18th century, is the city's most representative construction, due to its innovative architecture. The church of the Recoletas Convent, from the 17th century, of the Jesuits, who imposed their characteristic style on the facade. The Pinofiel House (map), a palace built in the 16th century. The church of San Zoilo, from the 16th century and the church of the Trinidad Convent, from the 17th century are other places of interest.

Megalithic Caves

Such as Menga (2,500-2,000 BC), with a 2m corridor, covered by five large slabs. You can learn more about the Dolmens of Antequera by clicking on the image below.

Torcal de Antequera

The Torcal Natural Park, located just 15 km south of Antequera, is a natural treasure of Andalusia. This park is famous for its extraordinary karst landscape, a geological wonder where limestone has been shaped by water over millions of years, creating spectacular formations that defy the imagination.

The Torcal de Antequera is a place where you can lose yourself among the rocks, discover marine fossils and enjoy unique flora and fauna. It is a place of great interest for nature lovers, geologists, photographers and anyone who appreciates natural beauty.

In addition to its impressive geology, the park is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Here you can find everything from mountain goats to a wide variety of birds, including eagles and vultures. The flora of the park is equally diverse, with species adapted to the harsh conditions of the karst landscape.

To learn more about the Torcal de Antequera, you can click on the image below, which will take you to a page with detailed information about this impressive natural park.

Antequera, like many cities in Andalusia, is famous for its vibrant fairs and festivities that are celebrated throughout the year. These events are a wonderful mix of tradition, culture, music and gastronomy, and offer visitors a unique insight into the rich heritage of the city.

August Fair

The August Fair is the most outstanding event on Antequera's festive calendar. This fair takes place during the second half of August. It is a week full of music, dance, bullfights and sporting events.

Holy Week

The Holy Week in Antequera is one of the most emotional and traditional in Andalusia. During this week, the city streets are filled with processions.

Other Festivities

Throughout the year, Antequera celebrates other festivities. The Fiesta de los Patios, where residents decorate their patios with flowers and plants, is celebrated during the first half of May. The Fiesta de San Juan, which marks the beginning of summer with bonfires and fireworks, is on June 24th.

These festivities offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience local culture, try typical gastronomy and enjoy the hospitality of the Antequeranos.

Antequera is an important communications hub in Andalusia, thanks to its central location. The city is 45 km from Malaga and 115 km from Cordoba via the A-45 motorway. In addition, the A-92 connects Antequera with Seville, about 160 km away, and Granada, about 102 km away.

Buses

Antequera has a network of urban buses that facilitate movement within the city. In addition, the M-253 bus line connects Antequera with Malaga and Casabermeja, facilitating access to these nearby locations.

Trains

Antequera has three train stations:

• Antequera-Ciudad Station (for Medium-Distance trains)
• Bobadilla Station, located 8 km from the city
• Antequera-Santa Ana Station, which offers high-speed train (AVE) services

The high-speed train (AVE) connects Antequera-Santa Ana with Malaga train station, as well as with the stations of Cordoba, Puertollano, Ciudad Real, Madrid and Barcelona. On the other hand, the medium-distance train connects Antequera with Seville, Granada, Almeria, Malaga, Cordoba and Algeciras, as well as with other nearby locations such as Teba, Campillos, Loja, Álora, Osuna or Montilla.

If you plan to visit Antequera from Malaga, the most direct route is to take the A-45 motorway towards Cordoba. You will see diversion signs to Antequera just after passing Casabermeja.

Antequera is only 45 km from Malaga, which facilitates its access both by train and by bus. The city has a train station and a bus line, the M-253, which links Malaga with Antequera.

If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, you might consider renting a car. We offer competitive prices for car hire in Malaga. Below is a map showing the route to get from Malaga to Antequera by car.