Casarabonela is a municipality in the Sierra de las Nieves region, located in the foothills of Sierra Prieta. From its viewpoints, travellers can see Valle del Guadalhorce and the sea. Of Roman origin and with its prehistoric remains, Casarabonela is one of the Costa del Sol towns that has best combined its Roman, Muslim and Christian heritage. In its traditions, landscapes and flavors you will find memories of a magical past. For lovers of nature and plants, Casarabonela houses one of the finest collections of cactus in Europe.

NOT TO MISS IN CASARABONELA

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On your stroll through Casarabonela, you will discover the Moorish soul of this town in its narrow streets, whitewashed to suit the terrain. The Christian spirit appears in niches of the facades and temples of the municipality. And in this combination of cultures and religions, there is also room for the times of the Romans: remains can be found at the Taivilla site. Another notable site is Los Villares, located in the lower part of the town and belonging to an what was once a medieval village.

In the highest part of the town, the remains of the Arab Castle Casarabonela, declared of cultural interest and now turned into an interpretive centre, are preserved. The 9th century fortress conserves its wall hangings and four towers. Besides its historical value, it is an exceptional viewpoint. But the best spot to look out over Casarabonela is the Plaza de Buenavista, known as "Los Poyos", with a beautiful balcony overlooking the Valle del Guadalhorce.

With regard to religious architecture, it is worth visiting Santiago church, of late Gothic style. This temple houses the image of the Virgen del Rosario eighteenth century, the Museum of Sacred Art and a jewelry collection of great value. The chapel of Veracruz, built in the eighteenth century and dedicated to Our Lady of Rondel, also stands out.

Finally, we recommend visiting the Los Mizos Mill, the Andalusí Gardens and 'Mora i Bravard' Cactus Botanical Gardens, one of the best cactus nurseries in Spain. There, you will find more than 2,500 species from Mexico, South Africa, Madagascar and India, among other places.