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Archaeological site · Málaga, Andaluzia
Teatro Romano de Málaga
Ruins of the Roman Malaca theatre, from the early years of the Empire, at the foot of the Alcazaba, with seating, orchestra area and wooden walkways.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Teatro Romano de Málaga
The theatre was built in the early years of the Roman Empire as part of a public works program that continued into the 2nd century. It is the city's main Roman remnant. The seating area makes use of the hillside in the Greek manner and is completed by built structures where rock is missing.
Much of the cavea, the seating, the orchestra with large marble slabs and the stage are preserved; the stage is now covered with a wooden platform like the original. By the late 2nd century the theatre was already little used and was abandoned in the 3rd century. Later, the area housed fish-salting tanks where garum was produced; these remains are still visible on site.
The ruins emerged in 1951 during works for a garden. At first they were hidden by a gate in the wall. Soon it became clear it was the main entrance of a theatre that continued beneath the Casa de la Cultura, a building later demolished to excavate the whole area.
The theatre was declared a historical-artistic monument in 1972. The visit combines an adjacent interpretation center and a walk along boardwalks over the site. From outside, on Calle Alcazabilla, you can already see the whole complex with the Alcazaba behind it.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes, including the interpretation center.
Best time
In the morning, before or after the Alcazaba, which is next door. At night the illuminated theatre can be seen from Calle Alcazabilla. The site is usually open Tuesday through Sunday; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on Calle Alcazabilla, a five-minute walk from the Catedral and next to the Museo Picasso Málaga and the entrance to the Alcazaba.
Tip
Start at the interpretation center, which explains the theatre's layout and displays finds from the excavation. In summer the theatre sometimes hosts outdoor performances; check the program.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Teatro Romano de Málaga
When was the Teatro Romano of Málaga discovered?
In 1951, during works for a garden. Part of it lay beneath the Casa de la Cultura, a building that was demolished so the entire theatre could be excavated.
Can you see the Teatro Romano without entering?
Yes. From the Calle Alcazabilla, which is pedestrian, you can see the whole theatre. If you enter, you walk along the walkways and visit the interpretation center.
How much time should I allow for the Teatro Romano?
Half an hour to 45 minutes is enough. As it's next to the Alcazaba and the Museo Picasso Málaga, it fits easily into the same morning.