At first glance, Castillo de Colomares looks like a castle from another age. Towers, arches, battlements and stained-glass windows rise above one another, creating a fairytale silhouette. Yet Castillo de Colomares in Benalmádena is much more recent than it looks. It was built to tell a story in stone, commemorating Christopher Columbus and his voyage of 1492.

Set near Benalmádena Pueblo and overlooking the Mediterranean, it’s a striking sight even before you know the story behind it.

 

A castle built in the late 20th century

Colomares looks centuries old, but construction began in 1987 and was completed in 1994.

The monument was the vision of Dr Esteban Martín Martín, who built it with the help of two bricklayers. Over seven years, they worked by hand with brick, stone and cement to create a monument unlike any other in Benalmádena.

The result is a castle-shaped monument designed to tell a story through its architecture.

 

Castillo de Colomares

Columbus’s story told in stone

Take your time as you explore. Many of the architectural details refer to the expedition that sailed from Palos de la Frontera on 3 August 1492.

All three ships from the voyage are represented. La Niña sits high up beneath the La Rábida arch. La Pinta has a prominent place on the main façade, where it also recalls the role of the Pinzón brothers. La Santa María is depicted apart from the other two, a reference to its shipwreck during the expedition.

Look out for references to the Catholic Monarchs, the sailors’ faith and key moments from the voyage. There is also a symbolic mausoleum dedicated to Columbus and a small chapel associated with San Salvador, the name given to the first island the expedition reached.

 

Architecture that rewards a closer look

Part of what makes Colomares so photogenic is how different it looks from every angle. Arches, towers, rose windows, sculptures and decorative details overlap, bringing together a variety of architectural styles.

Step back to take in the whole monument, then move closer to spot the symbols tucked away among its towers and arches. Part of the fun is working out what each detail is meant to tell you.

From this hillside setting, the Mediterranean forms a fitting backdrop to a monument commemorating one of history’s great sea voyages.

How to fit Colomares into a day in Benalmádena Pueblo

Colomares is easy to combine with other sights in the upper part of Benalmádena. You can explore the historic centre of Benalmádena Pueblo, stroll through the Jardines del Muro or visit the Enlightenment Stupa or the Butterfly Park before heading back to the coast.

The visit takes place outdoors, around the monument. Opening hours vary by season and the monument is closed on Mondays, so check the timetable before setting out.

Frequently asked questions about Castillo de Colomares