Marbella History

Marbella History

The first human settlements in the area date back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic, as evidenced by the remains found on the slopes of the Sierra Blanca of Marbella objects.

Eastern peoples, Phoenicians and Carthaginians, inhabited the area in the seventh century B.C., established specifically in the area of ??Rio Real, as we witness the recent discoveries.

Meanwhile, the Romans settled in the old town, which was known by the name "Saldaba". Hence today in the municipality we find many remains: the Roman Villa of Rio Verde, the Guadalmina Roman baths, ...

The first references to Marbella are found in the Middle Ages, in the writings of geographers and Muslim travelers.

In the Islamic period, Marbella was a walled city. Was built (to the tenth century) inside a mighty castle and access to the interior was given by three gates: the Sea of ??Ronda and Malaga.

The Christian conquest of the city took place on 11 June 1485. From this historical moment and throughout the sixteenth century, the urban structure of the city undertakes major changes: the Muslim Medina who was nailed in the historical center, was demolished and in its place a square (Plaza Mayor Real), which today is the Plaza de los Naranjos was created. From it, and to link to the Puerta del Mar, called New Street was created.