The ‘Castillo de Colomares’ (Colomares Castle) in Benalmadena is one of the most interesting tourist attractions the municipality has to offer. It’s not really a castle, it’s more of a monument which was built between 1987 and 1994 by Esteban Martín MD as a tribute to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America.

This unique monument unifies various architectural styles which had a marked effect on Spanish culture: Bizantine, Romanesque, Arabic and Gothic.

A walk around the Colomares Castle will allow you to discover various elements from the symbols of the Catholic Kings, from the three cultures present in medieval Spain (Judaism, Christianity and Islamism) and other elements from Christopher Columbus’ epic voyage. 

Curious Facts 

• The Castle’s main surface area is 1500 square metres making it the largest monument dedicated to Columbus.
• Each of the three ships which made the voyage across the Atlantic are represented in the construction of the monument.
• The interior of the castle is home to the world’s smallest chapel. Measuring  just 1.96 square metres and is even featured in the Guinness Book of Records.
• There is an empty mausoleum in the castle… apparently there is hope that one day the remains of Columbus will be laid to rest there.

A visit to the castle only costs €2.50 for adults and €2.00 for kids and pensioners; they also have special prices for groups as well as qualified staff to carry out the guided tours.

Opening times 

Winter: 10am to 6pm

Spring: 10am to 7pm

Summer: 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 9pm

Autumn: 10am to 6pm

How to get there

From Sunset Beach Club, take the coast road towards Fuengirola. About 4 km from the hotel you’ll come to a roundabout, take a right turn and follow the road towards Benalmadena Pueblo; the Castle is on this road, just before arriving to the town. If in doubt, just ask at Reception 🙂