San Pedro Apostol Church
Built in the 15th century, it lost all its fittings between 1931 and 1936. The restored interior reflects simple Andalusian church architecture.
Pizarra
Pizarra sits at the heart of the Guadalhorce Valley, between the neighbouring villages of Alora and Cartama. The River Guadalhorce flows through the area, and the gateway to the Sierra de las Nieves opens up beyond – perfect for walkers who want to explore olive groves and citrus orchards.
History of Pizarra
Archaeological remains confirm settlement since prehistoric times. Roman and early Christian artefacts show continuous occupation of the land.
The modern village was founded around 1495 by a knight who took part in the conquest of Granada. In 1561 only 10 families lived here; between 1646 and 1652 the population grew to 54 families (about 200 people). Pizarra became an independent municipality in 1847. The Cordoba–Malaga railway ended its isolation and boosted agriculture.
Places of Interest in Pizarra
The historic fabric is seen-evident in churches and remnants of earlier eras. The main sights are listed below:
- Fuensanta Chapel: 16th century, built over a Mozarabic church, restored in the 20th century. (Map)
- Sacred Heart of Jesus: Statue erected in 1916, destroyed in 1936, rebuilt the same year after a lightning strike. (Map)
- San Pedro Apostol Church: 15th century, interior restored after losing all decoration between 1931 and 1936. (Map)
- Castillejos de Quintana: Rock-cut dwellings (Roman–Mozarabic). (Map)
- Arab Tower of the Cross: Circular base of a former defence system on Mount Gibralmora. (More info)
- Queen’s Bath: Roman structure, legend says it was the bathing place of a Moorish queen. (Map)
- Citrus drying houses (Casqueros): Former facilities for drying citrus peel used in gunpowder production. (Map)
Nature and Walking in Pizarra
Surrounded by hills and fields of olives, almonds and vines, Pizarra is an ideal base for walks through the Guadalhorce Valley and into the Sierra de las Nieves.
Contrasts and Orange Blossom Circular Walk
52 km divided into 4 stages with information panels. Varied scenery of Mediterranean scrub, orchards and rural buildings.
Other Highlights
- El Santo (Hacho), Arab ruins & Luna spring: 14.67 km, 527 m ascent.
- Circular El Santo – Castillejos de Quintana: 10.16 km, 554 m ascent.
- Hacho de Pizarra – El Santo: 7.73 km, 357 m ascent.
All routes pass through olive groves and vineyards. Tracks and more options: Wikiloc.
Festivals and Pilgrimages
Traditional celebrations mix religion and community spirit. The main events are:
- Fuensanta Raffle: 15 August, procession opens the village festival.
- Pizarra Festival: In the centre – food stalls, daytime concerts, evening music and fairground rides.
- Zalea Festival: May, pilgrimage to San Isidro Labrador.
- Cerralba Festival: June, in honour of the Virgin of the Rose.
- La Vega Festival: First weekend of July, the oldest local fair.
- Three Kings Parade: 5 January, floats and sweets for children.
- Carnival: Burial of the Sardine with torchlit procession.
- El Santo Pilgrimage: 28 February (Andalucia Day), on foot or horseback.
- San Juan Night: 24 June, flamenco Mass and dancing.
- Tapas Route: Since 2007, officially recognised by Malaga Province.
Cuisine of Pizarra
Local produce from the Guadalhorce Valley: sopa aplasta (bread and vegetable soup), Spanish potato omelette, majaillo and chilled gazpacho – all with regional olive oil.
Video about Pizarra
Getting to Pizarra
The village is 30 km from Malaga city and 35 km from the airport. The A-357 and A-7 provide the fastest access roads.
Car Hire
Collect from Malaga Airport and reach Pizarra in 30 minutes via the A-357. A car gives freedom to detour to Raja Ancha, stop at Hacho viewpoints or head into the Sierra de las Nieves nature reserve.
Hire a car
Private Taxi
Door-to-door from the terminal to your accommodation in Pizarra, Zalea or Cerralba. The driver knows the local access roads and avoids narrow lanes – ideal with walking gear or family luggage.
Book taxi*No credit card details required in advance, no prepayment. Early booking ensures best prices and availability.
Public Transport
Bus line M-231 (Malaga–Alora) departs from Malaga Bus Station and stops in Pizarra (journey time approx. 40 min). Train line C-2 (Malaga–Alora) leaves from Malaga Maria Zambrano station and arrives in Pizarra in 30–35 minutes.
Tourist Information for Pizarra
Town Hall: Camino de La Estacion, 1 – 29560 Pizarra.
Telephone: 952 48 46 84
Official website: www.pizarra.es
Frequently Asked Questions about Pizarra
How long do I need for the main walking routes?
Shorter routes (7–10 km) take 3–4 hours; the Contrasts and Orange Blossom circular requires a full day or several stages.
Are there rural accommodations in the municipality?
Yes, restored farmhouses and cortijos in Cerralba, Zalea and La Vega – ideal for quiet nights near the trails.
Can I combine Pizarra and the Sierra de las Nieves in one day?
Possible but tight: morning short walk in Pizarra, afternoon drive to Yunquera or El Burgo (30–40 min). Better to allow two separate days.
Where can I buy local olive oil or almonds?
At the weekly market (Saturdays) or small shops around Plaza de la Constitucion – direct from producers.
Are guided walks available?
The town hall organises dates; outdoor companies from Alora also offer tours that include Pizarra.
