Mijas Information

Mijas is one of the most famous pueblos blancos (white villages). Located at an altitude of 428 metres above sea level, it is set amongst pine forests and lush vegetation on the side of the Sierra de Mijas.

This municipality, like many others in the province of Málaga, has three centres of population: Mijas Pueblo, Las Lagunas and Cala de Mijas. The first of these is a classic whitewashed Andalusian village of Moorish origin that contains the monuments and the administrative centre. Most of the municipal services and part of the building developments are in Las Lagunas while La Cala de Mijas, within the coastal zone, is completely given over to residential and beach tourism.

Mijas has superb views over Fuengirola and the Mediterranean Sea. The area has become a favourite with artists and the narrow streets are filled with ceramics and craft shops and as well as cafes, bars and restaurants.

It is believed that Mijas was founded by the Turetanos, of the mysterious Tartessian Civilisation. The Romans developed a fortress on the site, which was conquered by the Moors in the 8th Century. In 1487 the town was taken by the Christian army and used as military headquarters during the years that followed.

During the Civil War Mijas was a Republican stronghold. It is rumoured that underneath the Iglesia Parroquial de la Inmaculada Concepción there are tunnels where the villagers hid from Franco’s army.