Imagine standing in the ancient city of Malaca in the 1st century AD. Thousands of citizens in tunics and togas fill the tiers of a magnificent theatre freshly built on the orders of Emperor Augustus. Trumpets sound, the audience falls silent, and on stage comedies and tragedies begin – performances that shaped social and cultural life in the Roman province of Hispania. This theatre was far more than entertainment: it was the very symbol of Roman power in a former Phoenician city that had become a thriving colony. Today this same site lives on at the foot of the Alcazaba and remains the most important Roman monument in Malaga.
The Roman Theatre of Malaga was constructed at the beginning of the 1st century AD and could seat up to 3,500 spectators. It remained in use for more than two centuries until it was abandoned in the 3rd century. The Moors later used its stones to build the Alcazaba. The site then served as a salted-fish factory (with garum vats still visible) and later as a burial ground. Buried for centuries beneath houses and streets, it was discovered by chance in 1951 during gardening work in front of the old Casa de la Cultura. After decades of excavations and the bold demolition of the modern building in the 1990s, you can now walk among the tiers and feel history beneath your feet.
A visit to the Roman Theatre Malaga is a unique and completely free experience that blends archaeology, history and magic. It combines perfectly with the Alcazaba. The modern interpretation centre explains everything clearly, and in summer the stage comes alive again with performances. Anyone wanting to understand the Roman soul of Malaga should not miss this essential stop on the Costa del Sol.
*Opening times and information may change. Please always check the official Junta de Andalucia website before your visit.
The semicircular seating area makes clever use of the slope of the Alcazaba hill in Greek style. The lower and middle tiers are excellently preserved. Stairs divided spectators by social class: magistrates sat at the bottom, women and slaves higher up.
The semicircular area between the tiers and the stage was paved with large marble slabs. This is where dignitaries and honoured guests sat on marble seats of honour (proedria) – one of which still survives.
The performance area featured a high rear wall and an ornate stage front (scaenae frons) decorated with columns, niches and statues of emperors and gods. The design followed the rules of Vitruvius and provided excellent acoustics.
After extensive restoration, the theatre once again hosts theatrical performances and cultural events, especially in summer. A place that had “slept” since the 3rd century has been brought back to life.
The visit combines perfectly with the Alcazaba. Entry is always free (limited capacity for safety reasons).
Closed on Mondays and on 1 and 6 January, 1 May, 24, 25 and 31 December. For other holidays please check by email.
Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
Address: Calle Alcazabilla s/n, 29015 Malaga
Telephone: 951 50 11 15 / 671 53 92 12
Email: TRomanoMalaga.aaiicc@juntadeandalucia.es
Admission: Free (limited capacity)
No booking is required for independent visits. For guided tours we recommend reserving by phone or email.
The Roman Theatre is located in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre, in Calle Alcazabilla, right at the foot of the Alcazaba. The location is excellent: just 5–10 minutes’ walk from Plaza de la Constitucion, the port or the Picasso Museum. From most accommodation in the centre you can easily walk there.
Ideal if you are staying outside the centre (Torremolinos, Marbella, Nerja etc.) or want to explore the wider region. From the western Costa del Sol the drive takes 30–50 minutes. There are nearby car parks in the centre (Alcazaba or Plaza de la Marina).
Hire a car at Malaga Airport
The most comfortable choice if you are staying on the Costa del Sol or arriving at the airport. The driver will drop you directly outside Calle Alcazabilla. Perfect for families, travellers with reduced mobility or anyone who prefers not to worry about parking or public transport.
Book taxi or transfer*No credit card details required and no advance payment. We recommend booking in advance.
In central Malaga walking is the best option. By bus (EMT lines 1, 11, 19, 21, 25, 36 and 37) get off at the “Alcazabilla” or “Teatro Romano” stops. The red tourist bus also stops very close by. The nearest train and metro station is “El Perchel” (about 15 minutes’ walk).
Yes, entry is always free (limited capacity for safety reasons).
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00–18:00. Sundays and public holidays: 10:00–16:00. Closed on Mondays and on 1 and 6 January, 1 May, 24, 25 and 31 December.
Yes, and it is highly recommended. The theatre sits directly at the foot of the fortress – the two complement each other perfectly.
Yes, there are car parks nearby (Alcazaba, Plaza de la Marina). However the centre has limited traffic, so public transport or taxi is often more convenient.
Yes, especially in summer and during special events. The stage then comes alive again with classical productions.
A modern building with videos, original archaeological finds and clear explanations about Roman Malaga. Definitely worth a visit!
Largely yes – with ramps and walkways. Some areas of the tiers do however have steps.
In 1951 by chance during gardening work. Full excavation and restoration took place over the following decades.
Credit cards accepted
