Colomares Monument Benalmádena
A whimsical monument blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar styles, honoring Christopher Columbus with intricate details and coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Colomares Monument Benalmádena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical monument blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar styles, honoring Christopher Columbus with intricate details and coastal views.
"It's not a typical castle – it’s a breathtaking monument dedicated to the story of Christopher Columbus."
🎯 Cash for Entry
Bring cash for the 3 euro entrance fee, as card payments may not always be accepted.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Every corner is a photo op! Allow ample time to capture the intricate details and unique architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fairytale Architecture
A unique blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar styles creates a whimsical, storybook-like monument.
Tribute to Columbus
Each element of the monument tells a chapter of Christopher Columbus's voyages and the discovery of America.
Hidden Chapel
Discover the world's smallest chapel, a tiny, intricately designed space within the monument.
Scenic Viewpoints
Climb to elevated spots for breathtaking panoramic views of the Costa del Sol coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Fairytale Views
Affordable Entry, Unforgettable Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash for Entry
Bring cash for the 3 euro entrance fee, as card payments may not always be accepted.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Every corner is a photo op! Allow ample time to capture the intricate details and unique architecture.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
It's a smaller site, so take your time to appreciate the details rather than rushing.
☀️ Coastal Views
Don't miss climbing to the viewpoints for stunning vistas of the Mediterranean coast.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash for Entry
Bring cash for the 3 euro entrance fee, as card payments may not always be accepted.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Every corner is a photo op! Allow ample time to capture the intricate details and unique architecture.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
It's a smaller site, so take your time to appreciate the details rather than rushing.
☀️ Coastal Views
Don't miss climbing to the viewpoints for stunning vistas of the Mediterranean coast.
📅 Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary by season, so it's wise to check before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colomares Castle is widely praised as a unique, fairytale-like monument with stunning architecture and historical significance dedicated to Christopher Columbus. Visitors appreciate its affordability and the intricate details that make it a photographer's dream. Some find it small and perhaps overpriced for a brief visit, while others highlight its charm and the peaceful atmosphere.
"Colomares Castle is an absolute hidden gem in Andalusia 🌟. It’s not a typical castle – it’s a breathtaking monument dedicated to the story of Christopher Columbus, blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar styles into one fairytale-like structure.
Walking through its arches, towers, and detailed stonework feels magical, like stepping into a fantasy world. Every corner is filled with artistic details and history – from stained glass to intricate carvings. The atmosphere is peaceful and inspiring, making it perfect for photography, exploration, and learning. 📸✨
💡 Tips for visitors:
• It’s a smaller site, so you don’t need hours to explore, but take your time to notice the details.
• Go on a weekday for a quieter experience.
• Buy tickets in advance – it’s affordable and worth every cent.
• Don’t forget to climb to the viewpoints for stunning views over the coast. 🌊
A truly unique and unforgettable place that combines history, architecture, and beauty all in one. Highly recommended! ❤️"
Sema Tare
"As others have said, an overrated building/monument. It's nice, based on an idea or an ideal, dedicated without a doubt to a personality. But it doesn't tell you too much in the 10 minutes it takes to visit. You can see everything from the street (without paying the 3 euros which, frankly, are too much for what it offers)."
Arianna Somebody
"Really beautiful and nice experience and so cheap as well!🙌🏼☺️ A little side note: there is a very cute turtle in one of the little ponds but he/she looks like it is all alone without a friend and also the turtle can only be in the water and cannot come up and sit on a stone or anything. It is also quite a small pond for it. I don’t know anything about turtle welfare, but I hope the facility makes sure the turtle has a good life with everything it needs to thrive!❤️🐢"
Annika Bonita S. Petersen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colomares Castle is conveniently located in Benalmádena, about a 30-minute drive from Málaga. You can also take the C1 train from Málaga to Benalmádena and then a short taxi or bus ride to the monument. +1
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport options.
Yes, Colomares Castle is a perfect day trip from Marbella, being only about a 30-minute drive away. +1
If you're in Benalmádena, you can often reach the monument by a short taxi ride or even a pleasant walk, depending on your exact location.
Yes, you can take the C1 train to Benalmádena and then local buses or taxis to reach the monument.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 3 euros per person. It's often recommended to bring cash as card payments might not always be accepted. +1
While not always strictly necessary, buying tickets in advance can save time, especially during busier periods. It's a small fee, so it's generally recommended.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season. It's best to check the official opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Yes, Colomares Castle is typically closed on Mondays. Always verify current opening days before planning your visit.
Most visitors agree that the 3 euro admission fee is excellent value for the unique architectural experience and photo opportunities it offers.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! Colomares Castle is a photographer's dream with its intricate details, unique architecture, and fairytale-like ambiance. Every angle offers a stunning shot. 
Late afternoons during the golden hour can provide beautiful lighting for photography. However, visiting on a weekday morning will offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The monument is a fascinating blend of Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine, and Mudejar styles, creating a unique and eclectic design.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the monument, allowing time to appreciate the details and take photos.
It's not a traditional castle but a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his voyages, built in the late 20th century.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes in Benalmádena town near the monument. Some reviews mention a charming coffee shop on the premises for a post-tour break.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the monument to preserve its delicate structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. Supervise children closely to ensure they respect the delicate structures. Consider it a visually stimulating stop rather than an active play area. The nearby town of Benalmádena has other family-friendly attractions if you're looking for more.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Bring cash for entry. Combine your visit with exploring Benalmádena town or nearby beaches to create a full day of affordable exploration. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Focus on the intricate details, symbolic carvings, and the unique blend of architectural elements. Photography tips: Visit during the golden hour for stunning light, or opt for weekday mornings to avoid crowds. Explore different vantage points to capture the monument's scale and its integration with the landscape. Don't forget to photograph the world's smallest chapel and the coastal views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story in Stone: Architecture and History
It's not a medieval fortress but a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his voyages. The design is a captivating fusion of Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine, and Mudejar styles, creating a whimsical, fairytale-like appearance that has charmed visitors. Each arch, tower, and carving is intentionally designed to narrate a part of Columbus's journey and the history of Spain's discovery of the Americas. +1This unique approach means that while it looks like a castle, its purpose is purely commemorative and artistic. The intricate details, including stained glass windows and symbolic sculptures, invite visitors to look closer and discover the stories embedded within the stonework.
Despite its relatively recent construction, the monument evokes a sense of timelessness and wonder. Its location in Benalmádena offers not only architectural marvels but also stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, adding another layer to the visitor experience.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
The monument's unique blend of architectural styles provides endless opportunities for creative shots. Focus on the details: the ornate carvings, the colorful stained glass, and the whimsical arches. Don't be afraid to get close and capture the textures and craftsmanship.Consider visiting during the golden hour (late afternoon) for soft, warm light that enhances the monument's magical feel.
Remember to also capture the panoramic views from the higher points of the castle, showcasing the beautiful Costa del Sol coastline.
A Pocket of Peace: Visiting with Children
It's important to note that the site is primarily a monument, so supervision is key to ensure children don't touch delicate carvings or climb on unstable structures. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a good spot for a calm outing, and the nearby town of Benalmádena offers more traditional family activities if needed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit