| Today the city is the second most important destination for cruise liners in Spain whilst its airport receives visitors from all over the world and its comprehensive transport network is used by many who choose the city to organise congresses and conventions.
The ancient Malaga, its historic centre, with squares such as that of La Merced – the birthplace of Picasso, the Alcazaba, the Roman Theatre or the churches, blends with more modern city which is the result of the 60’s urban development, with romantic gardens such as those of the Finca de la Concepcion, on the outskirts> Both parts benefit however from the beaches, small covers, traditional fishermen’s houses and, naturally, the delicious pecaito (fried fish).
Although perhaps one name stands out above all others as Malaga’s main cultural attraction – the brilliant painter Pablo Ruiz Picasso, the city also boasts of numerous museums dedicated to a wide range of other themes. The religious theme is best represented in the Cathedral and Religious Art museums, but others include: the Museum of Popular Arts and Costumes, the Municipal Museum, the Centre of Contemporary Art, the Antonio Ordonez Bullfighting Museum – in the Plaza de la Malagueta, and the Juan Breva Flamenco Museum. The world of science can be explored in the Aula del Mar Aquarium Museum, which is the only centre for the protection of endangered marine species in Andalusia, and the Principia Scientific Centre, which includes a Planetarium. Also interesting is the Doll’s House Museum, which exhibits an unusual collection miniature houses dating from different periods.
The fresh fish and shellfish which are landed in the city’s port undoubtedly form the basis of the delicious local cuisine which includes popular dishes such as the cazuela de fideos, sardine espetos (skewers), rice a la marinera, or boquerones victorianos (with fresh anchovies), as well as other more traditional specialities such as ajoblanco con uvas, gazpachuelo, sopa malaguena…. which can all be washed down with delicious, locally produced, muscatel wines.
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