Benahavís

Benahavís is a typical Andalusian village with white houses and winding streets located inland on the Western Costa del Sol. The peaceful appearance of the village contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the rest of the district which has no less than 10 golf courses and a riding club.

Founded by the Arabs under the shelter of a tenth century fortress, Benahavís is today a perfect combination of the traditional and the modern. A charming village with endless possibilities as a top tourist destination, where the British population makes up some 25% of the total population of the town.

BENAHAVIS IS NOT TO BE MISSED

MONUMENTS

Thanks to its strategic location, Montemayor Castle became an important stronghold during the wars among the Taifa kingdoms of the former Al-Andalus. The fortress was built in the tenth century and still retains some of the original walls, the Queen’s Tower, chambers and a water well. The spot also offers splendid panoramic views of the coast.

Benahavís also boasts several Arab watch towers which form a comprehensive defence system. La Leonera Tower, which controlled the access to the valley of the river Guadalmina, next to Alcuzcuz, Tramores and Daidín Towers are some of the towers still standing in the town.

Although it was built in the 16th century, Benahavís Palace clearly takes its inspiration from the Nasrid dynasty. The building has dark stone walls, a beautiful arcaded courtyard and a tower. Today it is home to the offices of the Town Hall.

The most significant piece of religious architecture in the town is Virgen del Rosario Church. Founded in the 18th century, it has undergone many renovations over the centuries. The present temple is a simple modern building with a single nave.

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