Velez-Malaga is a working town with varied interesting architecture and old palaces. The origins go back to the Phoenicians and the Carthaginians, from which civilisations a great many important remains have been discovered. The Greek city of Mainake is reputed to have stood here. Under Roman rule, when it was known as Menoba, it was an important centre of commerce and trade. During eight centuries of Moorish occupation it was known as Ballix-Malaca (Fortress of Malaga) when again it was an important strategic, cultural and commercial centre.

Sightseeing:

• Fortaleza - built in the 13th century, the castle stands on top of a hill in the centre of Arrabal de San Sebastián, the oldest district of the town. The 16 metre high tower, built to guard the town, still stands in good repair as a symbol of the Moorish civilisation of Velez-Malaga.
• Palace of the Marquises of Beniel (Palacio de los Marqueses de Beniel) - in the attractive old area of San Sebastián, now a municipal building, is in Mudejar style with a magnificent vaulted ceiling above the stairwell.
• Hospital of San Marcos - founded in 1487 by Catholic Monarchs.
• Four convents and monasteries of artistic merit - these being San Francisco, Santa Clara, Sant José and Las Carmelitas.
• Church of Santa María la Mayor (Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor) - 16th century in Mudejar style. Triple nave and stunning ceiling.
• Church of San Juan Bautista - 15th century in Mudejar style with a valuable Baroque retable by Berruguete.

Towns and villages within the large municipality of Velez-Malaga are: Torre del Mar, Benajarafe, Triana, Trapiche, Almayate Bajo, Almayate Alto, Cajiz, Chilches, Lagos, Caleta de Velez and Mezquitilla.