Located between the majestic Serranía de Ronda and the historic Antequera, in the picturesque region of Guadalteba, lies Carratraca. This charming municipality, neighbouring places as rich in history as Álora and Ardales, has been a melting pot of cultures since time immemorial.
With roots dating back to the Arab era, Carratraca experienced a flourishing in the 19th century thanks to a very special natural resource: its medicinal waters. These waters, whose healing properties were already known by the Romans, led to the construction of a neoclassical spa in the mid-1900s. Today, this spa continues to attract numerous visitors, both tourists and locals, who seek to benefit from its therapeutic waters.
In addition to the spa, Carratraca has other points of interest, such as the town hall, which was once the residence of Trinidad Grund (Map). But this is just the beginning. Join us on this journey through Carratraca, where we will discover its rich history and its tourist attractions. We promise it will be an unforgettable experience.
The history of Carratraca is a fascinating journey through time. From the earliest Neolithic settlements, evidenced by the cave paintings in the local caves, to the Roman era, from which coins and a necropolis near the "Arroyo de las Cañas" have been discovered, Carratraca has witnessed numerous civilizations and cultures.
The origin of the current village dates back to the 19th century, although before that time there was a farmhouse known as "Cortijo de Aguas Hediondas". Tombs, remains of a wall and ceramics have been found throughout the village, suggesting that the area was inhabited and then abandoned for unknown reasons in the past.
The history of Carratraca is a story shared over the centuries, from prehistory to our days, with an important cultural legacy reflected in its architecture, traditions and customs.
The springs of medicinal waters that flow in Carratraca were used by the Romans, as evidenced by the discovery of copper and silver coins with the effigies of various Roman emperors at the site known as "La Glorieta". These waters, recognised for their healing properties, have been a valuable resource for the local community over the centuries.
Although there was a settlement here during the Muslim occupation of Spain, the current village emerged in the 19th century as a result of successive expansions of a farmhouse called Aguas Hediondas, a spa and a chapel built in the 18th century. This historical and cultural legacy makes Carratraca a place of interest for both local inhabitants and visitors.
In the heart of the province of Malaga, Carratraca offers a rich blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Here we present some of the most outstanding places that you cannot miss on your visit to this charming town.
The sulphurous water spa is a must-visit for any visitor. Known for its healing properties since Roman times, this spa remains a place of relaxation and rejuvenation for locals and tourists alike.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y1yMrHPEhji4YtRj6 (Closed)
The town hall, a beautiful neo-Arabic style building, is an ideal place to take some photos. Not far from there, you will find the original polygonal bullring (Map), an architectural wonder carved directly into the stone.
These are just some of the treasures that Carratraca has to offer. We invite you to explore and discover for yourself the magic of this Malaga town.
Carratraca is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. With its rich history and stunning natural landscape, it offers a variety of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the beauty of the region.
There are several notable hiking trails in Carratraca. Some of the most popular include the Ermita - Llano de Arenalejos Trail, the Tajo de Canana, and the Mina del Sapo route in the Sierra de Aguas (Map). These routes offer a mix of terrains and landscapes, from lush forests to stunning panoramic views.
Less than a kilometre from the town, along the forest road behind the Bullring, are the ruins of the Carratraca Hermitage. This hermitage was commissioned by Dona Trinidad Grund in honour of the town's patron saint, the Virgin of Health. Although now in ruins, the hermitage remains a point of interest for visitors and a testament to Carratraca's rich historical heritage.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ejibgQRKaJrMMH5i9
Carratraca, a town with a rich history and culture, celebrates various festivals and traditions throughout the year that reflect its unique heritage.
Among the most popular and traditional festivals of Carratraca, the charm of the Moorish Moon stands out, which is celebrated during the first weekend of September. This celebration transports us to a past where several cultures coexisted, and reminds us of the Andalusian cultural legacy. Under the light of thousands of candles, the town transforms into a magical stage that hosts musical performances, a Moorish souk and the tasting of delicious Andalusian products.
Holy Week is another prominent festivity in Carratraca. During this week, hundreds of neighbours participate in the representation of the Passion of Christ. The big day is Good Friday, when the Virgin of Sorrows and the image of the crucified Christ go out in procession. This representation, which is developed under the canons of the Sacramental Autos, describes the life of Christ from his entry into Jerusalem to the Crucifixion and Resurrection.
In addition, Carratraca celebrates other festivals such as the night of San Juan on June 24, the August Fair in honour of the Virgin of Health, and the pilgrimage of the Virgin of Health the Sunday before the patron saint's festivals in August. In all these celebrations, visitors can enjoy the hospitality of the Carratrquenos and immerse themselves in local traditions.
The gastronomy of Carratraca is a reflection of its rich culture and its natural environment. Based on the rural Spanish culinary tradition, the cuisine of Carratraca is characterised by its simplicity and the quality of its local ingredients.
Pork and kid meat are the protagonists of many of its most emblematic dishes. Pork is used in a variety of recipes, from sausages to stews, while kid is usually prepared a la pastoril, a slow cooking technique that results in tender and tasty meat.
The tripe of Carratraca is another outstanding dish. This stew, made with pork guts and a variety of spices, is a real delicacy for lovers of homemade food.
In addition to meat, the gastronomy of Carratraca also includes a variety of dishes based on vegetables and legumes. Potages, such as berza or the potage of beans and chard, are common, especially during the colder months.
Olive oil, produced locally, is an essential ingredient in the cuisine of Carratraca. It is used both for cooking and for dressing salads and other dishes.
As for desserts, biscuits are a local specialty. These sweets, made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar and eggs, are the perfect end to any meal.
This municipality is located 50 kilometres from Malaga airport (approximately 50 kilometres driving). You should follow the directions towards Cartama and Pizarra; Carratraca is located before reaching Ardales without leaving the A-357 road.
You can check our prices for car hire in Malaga to get to Carratraca from Malaga by car with the greatest comfort.
Town Hall: C/ Trinidad Grund, 2 - 29551.
Phone: 952 458 016.
Official Website: www.carratraca.es
Credit cards accepted
