MALAGA, SPAIN April 17, 2014

The reason I had chosen this particular cruise was to experience Easter Week, Semana Santa, in Spain seeing several beautiful cities and their traditional celebrations.  The days in port coincided with the holy days where religious floats known as 'pasos' are carried on the shoulders of robed men during evening parades. The only thing I didn't remember is that the parades begin near sunset, lit by torches,  and the ship sailed usually about 5 or 6 pm. So, my plan didn't quite play out as I had wished. But, we did get some chances to see the preparations.

On Holy Thursday, we arrived in Malaga. The ship was docked right at the edge of town and an easy walk to the beautiful La Farola Promenade along the seafront. We joined the crowds to watch as a military ship sailed in and this group of soldiers and the band came ashore. 

Once they paraded along the waterfront and the dignitaries, they began a running march in to the city with the crowd following, including us. The streets nearby were closed to traffic so it was easy to cut across the gardens and catch up with them.  It was fun and exciting to be a part of it all. Once they reached the cathedral the soldiers dispersed and the crowds began to drift off to cafes, as did we.

 

 Our next stop was to find the Picasso Museum in the old town. As we were waiting in line, these gentlemen serenaded us. The wait went quickly and soon we were in the beautiful museum based in     the home that was Picasso's birthplace. The collection ranges from his early academic studies to cubism, many donated by the family. 

 Afterwards we sat in the beautiful geranium studded gardens for a coffee.

Then on to see the cathedral though it was closed when we stopped by.  The activities would all begin after dark.

 Principal government buildings were also closed for the day so there was a peacefulness to the streets. This is a view of  City Hall.

 Then we started on our hike up to Gibralfaro Castle (14th century) with outstanding views over the city.

 At the foot of Gibralfaro stands the Roman theater, the bullring known as La Malgueta and the historic part of the city

 It was a wonderful walk except for the water stream running all the way down the stone path making things a little slippery.

 The gardens were beautiful and everywhere we looked. We could easily see why Malaga is considered the capital of the Costa del Sol and one of Spain's foremost holiday destinations with its mild climate and beautiful beaches. We loved it!!  I could see returning to this city for a longer stay and maybe even a chance to be there at night for Semana Santa.