Álora

Álora is a municipality in the province of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. It lies in the Valle del Guadalhorce, on the left bank of the Guadalhorce River, about 40 kilometers northwest of Málaga city. The town is the historical and administrative center of the valley and is known for its rural character and surrounding scenery.

The area is characterized by a river valley setting with foothills and agricultural land, including olive groves and citrus orchards. The population is around 15,000.

Prehistoric rock art at Peña Pintada near Álora indicates early human presence. In the Middle Ages, Álora developed as a Moorish fortress town perched on a hill above the Guadalhorce valley. It passed to Christian control during the Reconquista and later became part of the Crown of Castile. The castle ruins and the old town reflect this history.

Key landmarks include the Castillo de Álora, the Peña Pintada rock-art site, and the Caminito del Rey, a historic walkway along the Gaitanes Gorge that reopened in 2015 after restoration.

Today the economy is mainly agricultural, with olives, citrus fruits, and cereals, complemented by local services and tourism. The Caminito del Rey has attracted visitors from across Spain and abroad, contributing to the town's profile as a tourist destination. Local festivals and religious celebrations reflect Andalusian traditions.

Álora is connected by road to Málaga and other towns in the Guadalhorce valley; rail and bus services provide regional links.