Marbella, Spain Guide

Whether you’re golfing on a championship course, skipping through sparkling waters aboard a superyacht or shopping the high-end boutiques of Puerto Banus, you’ll soon see why this sun-kissed section of the Costa del Sol is renowned as the playground of the well heeled.

Linger over a frosty glass of wine at one of the al fresco bars that spill into the promenade, masts of megayachts jostling in the handsome harbour.

Once the sun goes down indulge in the energetic nightlife this area is famed for. Or for a gentler taste of Marbella’s pleasures, retreat to your villa just down the coast in Manilva, a charming village nestled beside this stunning sweep of coast. As the evening draws in, gather on the terrace where you’ll feast on traditional tapas prepared by your personal chef, as the sinking sun illuminates the Andalucian mountains beyond.

Marbella is a coastal city located in the southern region of Spain, known for its luxurious lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The history of Marbella dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Palaeolithic era. It has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors, each leaving their mark on the city’s culture and architecture.

During the Roman era, Marbella was known as Salduba, and it served as an important port for the trade of minerals and agricultural products. The city flourished under Roman rule, with the construction of roads, temples, and other public buildings. However, with the decline of the Roman Empire, Marbella fell into the hands of Visigoths and later the Moors.

Under Moorish rule, Marbella was known as Marbil-la, and it became an important strategic location due to its proximity to North Africa. The Moors built defensive walls and towers, which can still be seen in the city’s old town today.

In the 15th century, Marbella was captured by the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, during the Reconquista. The city underwent significant changes, with the construction of new churches and the expansion of the city’s walls. However, Marbella remained a small fishing village until the 19th century when it became a popular vacation spot for wealthy families from neighboring cities.

In the 20th century, Alfonso von Hohenlohe, a Spanish aristocrat wanted to turn the city into a luxury resort destination. He built the famous Marbella Club Hotel, which attracted celebrities and royalty from all over the world, including the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.

Today, Marbella continues to attract visitors from around the world, with its stunning beaches, upscale restaurants, and thriving nightlife. It remains a symbol of luxury and glamour, but it also holds a rich history that can be seen in its ancient ruins, traditional Andalusian architecture, and cultural festivals.