If you’re planning a holiday in Marbella, a must-visit is La Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square). This historic square is located in the Casco Antiguo, Marbella’s old town. Impressive buildings which represent the social, administrative and economic power of the city of Marbella surround the square, which dates back to 1485.
It’s the site of Marbella’s most significant buildings, with points of interest such as El Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), La Casa del Corregidor (Old Governor’s House), and La Ermita of Santiago (Hermitage of Santiago). History buffs and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the relevance of the square as one of the most emblematic enclaves in the city of Marbella.
On the one hand, the stately buildings of the square reflect the city’s history and culture. On the other, the orange trees add a splash of colour, not to mention the sweet scent of orange blossoms in spring. Moreover, a multitude of lively terraces, restaurants and bars enhance the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
Therefore Plaza de los Naranjos is the perfect setting for visitors to choose a spot to sit down, have a drink or some tapas, and take in its charm. In the evenings, the illumination of the terraces adds a romantic touch to a magical setting.
Furthermore, the square serves as an ideal starting point to get to know the rest of the municipality. The Tourist Office located there will provide you with information about places of interest and local activities.
Where is La Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella?
Plaza de los Naranjos is in Marbella’s Casco Antiguo, or historic centre. It’s opposite Parque de la Alameda, and just off Ricardo Soriano, the main avenue of this bustling city in the province of Malaga.
Depending on where you’re travelling from, there are different ways to get to Plaza de los Naranjos. There are approximately 10 bus routes, including:
Marbella City Bus – Line Numbers: 2, 1, L-80, L-82, 3, 8, 9, 12, L-77, L-79, M-220, 13, L60 and L79 (all stop in the centre of Marbella).
For instance, the following stops: Plaza Cantarranas, Peñuelas, Edificio Berrocal, or Marbell Center are all less than a 5-minute walk from the old town.
Once you reach the old town, just making your way to Plaza de los Naranjos is a delightful experience in itself. You’ll suddenly find yourself in a charming maze of cobbled streets lined with whitewashed facades, and picturesque alleys with colourful potted flowers hanging on the walls.
Therefore, when you visit Plaza de los Naranjos, take your time to do some sightseeing, go shopping or pick up some original souvenirs in the artisan and souvenir shops and boutiques of the old town before relaxing in the most beautiful part of Marbella.
History and origins of Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella
A visit to Plaza de los Naranjos Marbella may well be one of the most culturally, historically and visually enriching experiences you can find on the Costa del Sol. Built between 1485 and 1493, it was necessary to demolish a number of old buildings of Islamic origin in order to create a new space.
The objective was to open up and give some air to this part of the city, thus creating a hub for the economic, social and political power of the municipality.
Plaza de los Naranjos is the site of various buildings that represent the renaissance of the city:
- El Ayuntamiento (The Town Hall), formerly known as La Casa Consistorial.
- El Juzgado (The Courthouse), dating to 1552.
- La Ermita de Santiago (Hermitage of Santiago), dating from the 15th century.
For this reason, in addition to the Arabic style that is still evident in its streets, the area is called El Casco Antiguo, or the historic centre of Marbella.
Previous to “Plaza de los Naranjos”, the square had various other names:
- Plaza Mayor
- Plaza del Ayuntamiento
- Plaza de Riego
- Plaza de Isabel II
- Plaza de la Libertad
- Plaza de la Constitución
- Plaza de las Palmeras
- Plaza de la República
- Plaza del General Franco
In 1941, it was named La Plaza de los Naranjos de Marbella, after the beautiful orange trees planted in place of the original chestnut trees. To this day, they continue to add colour, aroma and character to this emblematic square.
The Cultural Heart of Marbella
Plaza de los Naranjos is considered the cultural heart of Marbella. Meandering between whitewashed facades, the narrow streets leading to the square create an old-world feel and a unique ambience.
As you wander around, you can visit the Iglesia de la Encarnación, dating back to 1505, and located just a short walk from the square. In the backdrop, you can see the fortified walls and the remains of the Alcazaba, an 11th century Arabic fortress.
It must be said that the atmosphere of the old town is nothing like that of the main avenue, the promenade, or the port area. Over recent years, the city has undergone urban changes which have altered its physiognomy. This has led different associations to take steps to have Marbella’s Casco Antiguo declared an Andalusian Historical Heritage Site. However, the proposal is not expected to be approved until 2023.
In the meantime, Marbella’s Casco Antiguo and Plaza de los Naranjos are a prime destination during a visit to the city, with something for everyone.
Restaurants in Plaza de los Naranjos
Finally, you cannot visit Plaza de los Naranjos without taking time out to sample the local cuisine. You will come across a wide variety of restaurants and bars in the old town that offer great food and service.
However, here are some options you mustn’t miss:
Lateral: a restaurant where you can enjoy classic Andalusian flavours. In addition to a wide range of breakfasts, appetisers, desserts, drinks and cocktails, they offer many other delicacies that will seduce your palate.
La Casa del Corregidor: a beautiful setting where you can have traditional tapas and authentic Spanish dishes. This restaurant provides an ideal, relaxed atmosphere, whether you are dining alone or in company.
Cafetería los Naranjos: An inviting family atmosphere and a wide variety of dishes, desserts, cakes and ice cream, not to mention delicious coffee.
