A walk through the fascinating historic architecture of Benahavís, and what you can still see today from ancient times.
Article by Sophie Gatward-Wicks
The charming municipality of Benahavís, located 7km inland from Marbella’s coastline, is more than just Spain’s most affluent residential hot-spot. With its charming village, outstanding gastronomic offering and stunning natural landscape, it has cemented itself as our top favourite place to live in the world. It also just so happens to be an area that contains much of the fascinating architectural history we can appreciate from the ancient Moorish settlements that once reigned over the Costa del Sol.
A brief origin story
In 711 C.E. (1,312 years ago), the Moors invaded Spain and established the Islamic Andalusian civilisation. The Moors’ rule in Spain lasted around 800 years, from the 8th to the 15th centuries. This had a long-lasting impact on Spanish culture, including art, cuisine, language and architecture.
The story of Benahavís begins in the late 11th century when the Moors established their presence in the region. The village’s name, derived from ‘Bin al Havis’, refers to the son of Havis, a Moorish prince who once ruled the area. This strategic location was chosen not by chance, but for its commanding position over the Guadalmina River valley and the 100km of coastline below, offering natural protection and surveillance in every direction.
Today you can still see the architectural structures, castle ruins and even aqueducts that remain. There are also subtle historical markers throughout the village, from the stone masonry techniques to the layout of the streets that still follow medieval town planning principles, providing Benahavís with heaps of history to appreciate.
Montemayor Castle
Perhaps the most significant historical landmark is the Montemayor Castle, perched atop one of the highest peaks in the area at 572 metres above sea level. Commissioned in the 10th century by the aforementioned Arab prince, and given to his son ‘Bin al Havis’, this fortress played a crucial role in the defence of the region.
Today, while mostly in ruins, the castle’s remaining structures give visitors an extraordinary glimpse into medieval architecture, with the layout of the Queen’s Tower, chambers and a water well still distinguishable. The Queen’s Tower (Torre de la Reina), played an essential role in the village’s surveillance network. Visitors can still see the original stonework and imagine the medieval guards scanning the horizon for approaching threats.
The spot offers panoramic views of the coast, which is a much welcomed reward after the steep climb to reach its peak. On clear days, Gibraltar and North Africa can be seen on the horizon of the Mediterranean sea, and behind the expansive coastline you get a 360° viewpoint of several Sierras that surround it.
En route to the peak of Montemayor you may also pass the Torre de la Romera, a historical castle-like structure where silk and linen were once produced. The great Vizier of Málaga ordered this structure to be built as a place of rest and refuge, then during the 15th century, a group of Portuguese corsairs attacked and plundered this farmhouse after crossing the Straits from Ceuta. During the attack, over fifty Nasrids died and all linen reserves were plundered. Now a seemingly secret hideout, protected by fig trees and shrubbery, with ancient rubble on either side of the path. It’s poignant to think that such a quiet and unassuming location was once under siege.
The heart of the village
Walking through the narrow and winding cobblestoned streets, Benahavís village reveals the medieval Islamic urban planning which credits this place with its postcard aesthetic. The village centre maintains its original layout, with whitewashed houses and stone walls decorated with vibrant potted flowers. Of particular interest is the Plaza de España, the village’s main square, which has served as the community’s gathering place for centuries.
The Church
The Christian reconquest of 1485 marked a significant turning point in Benahavis’s history. Under Christian rule, the village underwent various transformations, though it maintained much of its Moorish architectural character. The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (Iglesia Virgen del Rosario) was built in the 18th century on the ruins of an ancient mosque. Standing as a testament to this period of transition its design incorporates elements of both Christian and Moorish architectural styles.
The Towers
These watchtowers belong to a network of five in total, all built to protect the village and serve as an external defense to the Montemayor Castle, controlling access to the Guadalmina River valley. La Leonera Tower, located in Torre Leonera Park, is visibly the most well preserved, being the prettiest of the bunch and within a well-manicured park. Then there is the lonesome Torre Estéril, which seems so out of sorts, surrounded by modern residences and mountainous terrain.
The Torre de Benamarín is another standalone gem, and then there is the Torre de Tramores, which perches awkwardly on an incline, with its intricate internal brickwork intriguingly on display like a cross-section of a slice of cake. The majority of its destruction is due to the natural elements over the centuries, along with periods of looting. In a precarious condition, only half of the tower remains. The stairwell is articulated by overlapping brick vaults and the rest of the construction material and ceramics are scattered around the area as far as the river.
Last but not least is the aforementioned Torre de la Romera, which may have been named after the rosemary bushes that are prominent in the area, or perhaps its namesake had more to do with its alternate meaning: “Pilgrim” or “Palmer.”
Benahavís today
Today, Benahavís offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities. The village has carefully preserved its historical essence while evolving into a sophisticated destination known for its exceptional gastronomy and cultural offerings. Local authorities have implemented careful preservation measures to protect the village’s architectural heritage, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience this remarkable historical legacy. As we look to the future, Benahavís stands as a shining example of how a community can preserve its historical heritage while embracing contemporary life.
Your slice of paradise in Benahavís
BRIGHT’s current development, Vista Lago Residences, lies in the municipality of Benahavís. Vista Lago is a private gated community of 18 sustainable, luxury villas within Real de la Quinta, one of the most sought-after areas on the Costa del Sol.
Benahavís, already famous for its upscale residences, proximity to Marbella, and stunning natural beauty, continues to attract international buyers seeking a luxury lifestyle. With the backing of La Quinta Group, a company known for its high-quality developments, this project is positioned for long-term success.
For more information on securing your own sustainable villa at Vista Lago, visit vistalago.es or email our Sales Team on: info@by-bright.com or call: (+34) 951 12 72 46
