It is impossible not to notice the presence of the spectacular Arab-style building with red walls against the backdrop of the Mediterranean when strolling along the coast of Benalmádena: we are talking about El Bil-Bil Castle, an iconic place on the Costa del Sol. This cultural center is one of the highlights of this area of the country and a destination that you should add to your list of places to visit.
Discover all the information about El Bil-Bil Castle in this article and start preparing for your next trip to the Costa del Sol.
History of El Bil-Bil Castle
In reality, El Bil-Bil Castle is not a castle. It is a small palace built before the Spanish Civil War by a French couple as a place of rest and well-being on the Costa del Sol. It is the work of the architect Enrique Atencia and was designed with a strong Neo-Mudéjar inspiration that gives it a unique identity in this location.
After passing through various public and private hands, the Benalmádena City Council has decided to transform it into a cultural space, where concerts, ceremonies, exhibitions and other events are held. Today, it is one of the most interesting points on the Costa del Sol and deserves a visit.
Architecture and Features of El Bil-Bil Castle
There is no avoiding noticing the aesthetic importance of El Bil-Bil Castle in the coastal landscape of Benalmádena. The combination of Andalusian art with Arab tradition and romantic details creates a very attractive and perfect ensemble for photographing. It is a place that has to be on your list of activities for winter holidays on the Costa del Sol.
The red facade strongly attracts attention and generates a perfect contrast with the infinite color of the sea; the interior and exterior decoration based on mosaics and handmade tiles gives a unique spirit to this building; its typical Arab-style patios contain fountains that transport us to other latitudes; it is a magical building that seems not to belong to this place, although it fits perfectly.
Events and Exhibitions
As a cultural center, El Bil-Bil Castle offers numerous activities for people looking for leisure options in Benalmádena. This is what you can find:
Concerts
In good weather, El Bil-Bil Castle becomes the setting for concerts of jazz, classical music, flamenco and many other musical genres. If you have the opportunity to attend one of these shows, take advantage of it!
Art
Painting, sculpture, photography, crafts… you will find exhibitions of various styles and eras, both by local artists and from other regions.
Weddings
Yes, it is possible to get married in this small palace, a romantic and beautiful place that works perfectly for this type of ceremony. If you are looking for a place to hold your wedding on the Costa del Sol, you know!
Other events
This multidisciplinary space also hosts talks, workshops and meetings of various types: check the city council’s cultural agenda to discover the most relevant events on the dates of your visit.
Visit to El Bil-Bil Castle in Benalmádena
You can visit El Bil-Bil Castle, and the visit is free as long as the building is open for public activities. In the event that there are private activities, you can enjoy the exterior and its spectacular surroundings.
What to do during the visit to El Bil-Bil Castle
- You can tour the interior spaces and enjoy its decoration and relaxing interior patios
- Walk through the outdoor garden and enjoy the sea views
- Reveal your artistic side with your camera, as this place is very photogenic
Complement your visit to El Bil-Bil Castle with other points of interest in Benalmádena, such as the Benalmádena cable car and the Colomares Castle
Location
El Bil-Bil Castle is located on the Benalmádena Costa promenade, right in front of the beach, and access is very easy from any area of the coast.
Tips for the visit
To fully enjoy El Bil-Bil Castle, we have some practical tips for you:
- Check the city council website to confirm times and activities before your visit
- The golden hour, during sunset, is the ideal time to visit due to its great beauty
- We recommend walking the entire promenade, because it is a very pleasant journey
- Take the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent beach of Benalmádena Costa
Remember that in the summer months, Benalmádena is a busy place, so plan in advance so that your visit is as satisfactory as possible.
Visit El Bil-Bil Castle, a different place on the coast of Benalmádena
El Bil-Bil Castle is one of the best places to visit on the Costa del Sol: a recent place, but with history, a beautiful space with a unique aesthetic, which offers leisure activities, but also a visual attraction in the coastal area. In addition, you can take the opportunity to visit fantastic places on the Costa del Sol, such as Fuengirola, Mijas and Málaga, among many others.
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