Roman Baths of Las Bovedas in San Pedro de Alcantara (Marbella): The Hidden Treasure of the Roman Empire on the Costa del Sol

In the heart of San Pedro de Alcantara, one of Marbella’s most exclusive enclaves, lie the Roman Baths of Las Bovedas – one of the most remarkable and best-preserved Roman thermal complexes in Spain. Just metres from Guadalmina Beach, at the mouth of the Guadalmina River and right beside the Early Christian Basilica of Vega del Mar, these ruins transport you back to the 2nd century AD, when the Costa del Sol was already part of the splendour of the Roman Empire.

Discovered in 1926, these baths have fascinated visitors for centuries. Locals in the 16th century called them “Moorish baths”, believing they were Andalusi remains. A traveller who visited in 1782 compared them to the Pantheon of Agrippa for their monumental beauty. Declared a National Monument in 1931, they reveal extraordinary geometric precision: a central octagonal hall with a ring vault and oculus, surrounded by seven high-vaulted chambers, a hypocaust heating system, and remains of mosaics and marble from the Torcal de Antequera.

Visiting the Roman Baths of Las Bovedas is much more than archaeology: it is an immersion into the daily life of a prosperous Roman villa, the perfect combination of history and beach, and the discovery of an authentic, uncrowded corner of Marbella. Ideal for those seeking unique cultural experiences on the Costa del Sol.

History, Architecture and What to See at the Roman Baths of Las Bovedas

Built in the 2nd century AD and used until the Late Roman period (3rd century), the baths formed part of an important Roman settlement, possibly linked to the ancient Silniana or Salduba. The building features a precise geometric layout with a large central octagonal hall and seven high-vaulted rooms arranged over two levels. The excellent preservation of the vaults is thanks to the Roman technique of opus caementicium. Inside you can see remains of large mosaic tesserae, opus signinum floors and oolitic marble slabs from the Torcal de Antequera. The hypocaust heating system and the cold-water pools of the frigidarium are still clearly visible.

Next to the baths are ancient Roman fish-salting pools used for the production of garum, and the Torre de las Bovedas, a 16th-century Christian watchtower built to defend the coast against Berber pirates. The entire site is one of the most important archaeological ensembles on the Western Costa del Sol.

Practical information for your visit

• Location: Urbanisation Guadalmina Baja, Calle 6A (or Calle 3), 302, San Pedro de Alcantara (Marbella). Just 10 metres from Guadalmina Beach.
• Access: Easy access via the N-340 or A-7. Parking available nearby.
• Visiting times: Free entry. Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 11:00 (guided visit). Some Fridays extended to 12:00. Confirm in advance recommended.
• Contact: Marbella Town Hall – Culture Department: 952 76 87 67 or culturayjuventudsanpedro@marbella.es
• Recommended: Combine with the Early Christian Basilica of Vega del Mar (only 500 m away) and a walk along Guadalmina Beach.

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How to Get to the Roman Baths of Las Bovedas from Marbella and the Costa del Sol

The Roman Baths of Las Bovedas are well connected and very easy to reach from anywhere in Marbella or the Western Costa del Sol. From central Marbella or San Pedro de Alcantara the journey takes just 10-15 minutes. From Puerto Banus, Nueva Andalucia, Estepona or Benalmadena it is also a short and pleasant drive via the A-7 or N-340.

Car hire: the most flexible and recommended option

With a hire car you can reach the site in 10-15 minutes and combine your visit with other attractions at your own pace.

Hire a car in Malaga

Taxi or private transfer: maximum comfort without driving

A professional driver will collect you from your hotel in Marbella, San Pedro, Puerto Banus or anywhere on the Costa del Sol and take you directly to the baths with a fixed price.

Book taxi or transfer

*No credit card details required in advance. We recommend booking early.

Other transport options

From central Marbella or San Pedro you can also reach the baths easily by local taxi or bus. From Puerto Banus or Nueva Andalucia, a taxi is the most practical choice. Public transport is cheaper but less flexible, especially with children or when combining several stops. Car hire and private transfer remain the most comfortable options.

Practical tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and suitable clothing – the site is outdoors with uneven ground levels.
• Combine your visit with the Early Christian Basilica of Vega del Mar (500 m away) and a stroll on the beach.
• For guided tours or groups, contact Marbella Town Hall in advance.
• Best time to visit: spring and autumn. Avoid midday heat in summer.
• Respect the archaeological site and follow the staff’s instructions.