6 Best Things to Do and See in Frigiliana

Voted several times as “The most beautiful village in Andalusia,” Frigiliana will be one of the best places to visit if you’ve always wanted to experience a typical Andalusian village with white-washed houses. The town is about 60 kilometers from Málaga, the central hub of the renowned Costa del Sol coastline, and only 7 kilometers from the famous beach resort town of Nerja.

Its labyrinthine cobbled streets with plant pots everywhere you look and buildings with white facades and blue and turquoise doors provide a unique and lovely atmosphere. Wandering through its narrow, winding streets and exploring every corner of this charming village is an absolute delight! You will quickly notice that Frigiliana is a remarkably picturesque location. 

Since Frigiliana is small, you can easily explore it in one day. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes because of the many cobblestoned streets and stairs. If you go on a hot summer day, try going as early as possible or in the late afternoon.  

Best Things to Do and See in Frigiliana

#1 Check out the Palace of the Counts

The Palace of the Counts (Spanish: El Palacio de los Condes), also known as “El Ingenio,” is a large Renaissance-style building from the 16th century that belonged to the Count of Frigiliana, the Manrique de Lara family.

The most exciting part of this mansion is that stone blocks from the old fortress were used to build it, which is of great historical value in Frigiliana.

Today, it is a factory that produces the only honey cane in Europe. Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the interior part of the building since the factory is still in operation.

However, you can look closer at the decoration on the main facade; here, you will find paintings and sgraffito. The facade’s “El Ingenio” decoration is a unique element of this site worth checking out.

#2 Explore Frigiliana’s Main Street “Calle Real”

When arriving at Frigiliana, you must walk Calle Real, which takes you through the old town called “Morisco-Múdejar”. It will bring you many worthwhile sights, such as the Church, El Torreón, and the town hall.

In addition, you have lots of bars and restaurants here. But you will also see a variety of souvenir shops selling typical products of the area. You will quickly notice that it’s a lively area. And being the main street in Frigiliana, now and then, a car passed by.

Calle Real begins at the Palacio de los Condes Square and ends at the village’s western side, very close to the statue of the Three Cultures.

#3 Visit the Church of San Antonio de Padua

While walking along Calle Real, you will reach San Antonio de Padua Parish (Spanish: Parroquia de San Antonio de Padua), a spotless white church worth looking closely at. Its style is Renaissance and Rococo. In front of it, you will see a cozy square with several restaurants, perfect for a break while marveling at the Church and watching people passing by.

If you plan to visit the Church, I recommend going outside mass hours.

Mass Hours

Summer: Tuesday and Wednesday at 20:00 and Sunday at 12:30 and 20:00

Winter: Tuesday and Wednesday at 19:00 and Sunday at 12:30 and 19:00

Square of the Three Cultures

#4 Marvel at Calle “El Garral”

One of the most beautiful corners in Frigiliana is Calle El Garral.

You can locate this picture-perfect place by turning to the right into “Callejon de la Iglesia” when passing the Church. Then, walk past the end and walk through a little white-washed tunnel.

Et voilà, you will find yourself in the most beautiful corner of Frigiliana!

#5 Check out the Botanical Gardens

For a bit of nature in the village center, visit the Botanical Gardens of Santa Fiora. Don’t expect too much, as the gardens aren’t that big. However, a walk through a green space is always relaxing.

The gardens are open 24 a day, and the entrance is free. So you can visit whenever you like and learn more about the plants that the inhabitants of Frigiliana have used. It’s an excellent site to visit with children.

#6 Learn more about the Fountain of The Three Cultures

Another interesting site, not very photogenic, though, is the Fountain of the Three Cultures (Spanish: Fuente de las Tres Culturas).

It has significant importance in the history of Frigiliana since it represents the three cultures (Jewish, Christian, and Muslim) that coexisted in the village long ago. You can find the fountain very close to Calle El Garral.