In their rush to hit the beaches and pleasure spots of Marbella, many visitors miss the jewel that is the heart of Marbella; the Old Town, or Casco Antiguo. Situated on the North side Avenida Ramon y Cajal, the main road that passes through Marbella, it is easy to simply drive past, but this original quarter retains a charm and authenticity that is a pleasure to explore, with whitewashed alleys, cobbled paths and tranquil squares, housing an eclectic mix of traditional shops and upmarket boutiques, simple cafes and elegant restaurants, many with beautiful, hidden, flower filled courtyards.

Still partially enclosed by a 9th century Moorish wall, the Old Town centres around the Plaza de los Naranjos, a square bordered with cafes and restaurants, home to the Town Hall built in 1568, which proudly display several shields and commemorative stone plaques on the right of its� fa�ade, in excellent condition. To the left of the Town Hall is one of the oldest buildings; the Chief Magistrate�s house, dating back to 1552 and identifiable by the three arched balcony on the upper floor and its� original stone fa�ade. The square is planted with orange trees whose fragrant blossoms scent the air in Springtime and is also home to an efficient and helpful Tourism office. Caf� Ramon is a favourite place for lazy breakfasts of churros and hot dipping chocolate, and the numerous other cafes in the square, whilst seeming a little bit more touristic, are still great for coffees, cocktails and people watching. Next door to Ramon, there is the Capilla de Santiago, a small but ornate Chapel which today houses religious figures belonging to the Brotherhood of Love and Charity. To the left of this, stands a stone fountain, dating back to 1504, commissioned by the first Christian Mayor of Marbella.

Strolling down towards the main road of Marbella, a number of specialist shops exist; a shop devoted solely to exquisite, finely crafted dolls� houses and furnishings, situated opposite a shop full of cutting edge, contemporary design home pieces. Following the path round the left to Calle Gloria, passing by an up-market Italian restaurant with a cool elegant white marble reception hall, you come across one of the most quaint, emblematic shops of the Old Town; La Paz which sells of religious articles from wall hangings, plaques, statues, to jewellery etc. In contrast, a few more steps brings you to Cesteria, an Aladdin�s cave of woven baskets, mats and hats.

These narrow alleys open onto a cool square and look onto the impressive Baroque fa�ade of the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Encarnaciaon with its� imposing belltower. Dating from 1618, much of the interior was damaged during the Spanish Civil War but subsequently restored.

The Old Town holds many surprises whether exploring the history and architecture of the town, or simply strolling and shopping for a unique gift, or enjoying the great Spanish pastime of people watching with tapas and a glass of chilled fino, there truly is something for everyone.

Recommended Restaurants:
Buenaventura, $$$$
Plaza de la Iglesia de la Encarnacion, 5
Tel: 952 85 80 60
El Patio de Los Perfumes $$$
C/Aduar 1,
Tel: 952 82 86 50
Casanis $$
C/Ancha, 8
Tel 952 90 04 50