Velez-Malaga, known locally just as Velez, is situated 1 kilometre inland from Torre del Mar and 26 kilometres to the east of Malaga, on the scenic Route of Sun and Avocado. It is the centre and capital of the district of Axarquia, with a population of 55,000. Despite it's proximity to the coast it has not developed a tourist industry.

The town lies in the wide valley of the River Vélez from where its main resources are found. These are agricultural products of vines, olives, sugar cane and vegetable and salad crops. Good quality olive oils and wine are produced here. There are also many garden nurseries growing and selling a wide range of plants, trees and seeds.

Sightseeing:
Fortaleza - built in the 13th century, the castle stands on top of a hill in the centre of Arrabal de San Sebastián, the oldest district of the town. The 16 metre high tower, built to guard the town, still stands in good repair as a symbol of the Moorish civilisation of Velez-Malaga.

Palace of the Marquises of Beniel (Palacio de los Marqueses de Beniel) - in the attractive old area of San Sebastián, now a municipal building, is in Mudejar style with a magnificent vaulted ceiling above the stairwell. Hospital of San Marcos - founded in 1487 by Catholic Monarchs.
Four convents and monasteries of artistic merit - these being San Francisco, Santa Clara, Sant José and Las Carmelitas.

Velez-Malaga

Fortaleza