City Hall

It takes a building as majestic as this one to house Málaga’s City Hall. Inaugurated in 1919, this imposing structure stands proudly at the entrance to the park, just a short walk from the historic centre. It was built on land reclaimed from the sea, part of a major urban development project in the early 20th century that aimed to showcase the city’s modern identity. The City Hall sits in a prime spot along a grand civic axis, nestled between the botanical gardens, the Alcazaba hillside, and the waterfront, a symbolic link between Málaga’s ancient heritage and its forward-looking spirit. With its rectangular shape, four corner towers, and richly detailed facades, the building immediately commands attention. It was designed in the neo-Baroque style, chosen at the time to reflect the power, stability, and prestige of public institutions. Every detail is meant to impress: carved balconies, wrought iron railings, ornate mouldings, blending a sense of solemnity with artistic flourish. Look up at the central pediment, just below the clock, and you’ll see a group of sculptures representing Málaga, flanked by allegories of fishing, architecture, and commerce, three of the driving forces behind the city’s growth. Inside, the building is divided into three main zones. There’s the famous Hall of Mirrors, an opulent space used for official ceremonies, with its gilded stucco and elegant detailing. Then come the administrative offices, followed by the council chambers, where the city’s major decisions are made. In 2010, the building was officially listed as a site of cultural interest, a well-deserved recognition of its architectural beauty, historic importance, and deep significance for the people of Málaga.