History
Costa del Sol is ancient "white" villages, narrow cobblestone streets, balconies and courtyards overflowing with flowers, flamenco, bullfights, fresh seafood, spicy tapas, mountains, and the Mediterranean coast. We see this history in beautiful palaces, ancient cathedrals & synagogues, the paintings of El Greco & Velazquez, medieval square and the splendid monuments all over Costa del Sol.
Man has lived on this part of Spain for many thousands of years. Neanderthal man occupied caves and open spaces throughout the province. Nature and the mild climate is the main attraction to this area and off course the golden beaches flanked by beautiful mountains.
One could easily notice the influences of Muslim, Jewish and Roman Catholic cultures in the history, art and people of Costa del Sol. In the architectures you can spot the moorish, romanesque, gothic and renaissance influence, all combined into a distinctly Spanish style.
Since Spain has been an active member of the European Union, it has experienced a dramatic improvement in the standard of living. The poverty of the Andalusia countryside has been largely eliminated and its people have regained their pride in the local culture.
Many of the villages near the coast have developed posh resorts but nevertheless preserved their archaic charm and magnetism. Communities hidden in the highlands remain rugged, with its serene charisma and olive trees, especially appealing for the more adventurous traveller.
One of the reasons for the huge success of the tourism industry on the Costa del Sol has been the ability to adapt to changing taste and demand. Today Costa del Sol is the premier tourist destination of Spain.
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