Visiting Malaga Cathedral, a monument of history and architecture
Striking architecture
Located in the heart of Malaga, the Cathedral of the Incarnation (Catedral de la Encarnación) stands as one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, this cathedral displays a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Its nickname, La Manquita (The One-Armed Lady), stems from the fact that its second tower was never finished, giving the building its distinct, asymmetrical profile. The facade details, featuring Corinthian columns and intricate stone carvings, draw the eye immediately.
A richly decorated interior
The interior is just as grand as the exterior. You will find vaulted naves reaching 41 meters (135 feet) in height, flanked by elaborately decorated chapels. The choir, featuring 42 finely carved wooden stalls, is a Baroque masterpiece. You can also view significant religious art, including paintings and sculptures dating back centuries. The Cathedral Museum contains further sacred treasures that provide additional context for the building's history.
Climbing to the roof
For a different perspective, you can climb to the cathedral roof to take in panoramic views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. This visit is best planned for late afternoon, when the golden light of the setting sun hits the city and its monuments, creating a clear view across the skyline.
Compared to the Seville Cathedral, which is not too far away, the one in Malaga might seem small. The exterior is not particularly spectacular. On the other hand, the interior is worth visiting. The way the light plays on the vaults and the stained glass windows is beautiful, and the woodwork in the choir has the luster of centuries. In short, worth a visit.