The Costa del Sol is made up of two provinces, Malaga and Cadiz although the majority is within Malaga, which is the capital city of the Costa del Sol. All of this sits within a region (the equivalent of a UK county) called Andalucia.
Andalucia is one of Spain's prettiest and most historical regions as it is a clash of many different cultures. Having been invaded many times over the centuries the most influential and longest occupiers were the Arabs.
It is clear to see when you look around Andalucia the Arabic influences in the architecture and culture. In fact the area was once know as Al Andalus, which gave way to Andalucia.
During their conquest of Spain the Arabs built many magnificent buildings and forts, many of which are still around today.
Some of the most famous Arabic influenced parts of Andalucia are Seville, Ronda, Granada and Cordoba. In all of these cities you will see magnificent Arabic architecture alongside Christian and Jewish buildings. In fact way back when the Arabs first invaded the three main religions lived side by side in harmony with each one respecting the others religious beliefs.
The Arabs gave Andalucia many influences that will continue forever such as Flamenco and many of the spices used in the food. In fact not many people knew that the Arabs were the first people to introduce under arm deodorant to the west.
Although the Arabs were overthrown once again by the Christians after centuries of occupation, Andalucia would not be the beautiful and cultural place it is today without the Arab occupation. Just look around at the Andalucian people, they are dark skinned with amazing eyes.
When the three main religions lived in harmony many inter-married which gave the real Andalucian's their unique appearance.