Sayalonga is a village in La Axarquia region, Moorish in its layout, with narrow streets and white houses. It is a perfect place to spend some peaceful days and discover its culture and beautiful landscapes:

The village is home to one of the most intriguing cemeteries in the Malaga province and fascinating examples of religious architecture. Each May, Sayalonga also holds a celebration in honour of one of its most typical produce: the loquat fruit.

SOME THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED WHEN IN SAYALONGA

MONUMENTS

The Santa Catalina Church was built on top of an old mosque in the 16th century. It has two naves divided by rounded arches. The main nave has a Mudejar framework, while the other one contains a shrine of the Virgen del Rosario (Our Lady of the Rosary), dating back from the 17th century. From outside, you can see its octagonal tower and, separated from the church, the San Antón chapel.

Next to the church is the San Cayetano shrine, also built in the 16th century. Inside, you will be marvelled by the impressive 18th century sculpture.

One of the most remarkable places in this village of La Axarquia is the circular-shaped cemetery. Its design is in fact octagonal, which, together with the domed structure of the niches, gives it a very unusual appearance. To help people get to know of its origins, the cemetery has its own Visitor Centre. Some theories not yet confirmed suggest that it is of Masonic origin.

Another example of Sayalonga´s religious architecture is the Mudejar-style San Pedro church, situated in the adjoining village of Corumbela. The church has one single nave covered by a coffered ceiling. The minaret of the mosque on top of which it was built has been preserved and converted into a bell tower.

Also worth a visit are the Moorish Museum of Sayalonga and the fountain of Cid, which it is believed that Rodrigo Díaz himself drank water from. Also, near the Plaza de la Constitución, is the Alcuza street, the narrowest street in La Axarquia.