Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol
The Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol (Church of Saint James the Apostle), situated on the bustling Calle Granada, holds a rather special claim to fame that art lovers will adore.
This is where Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, was baptised on 10th November 1881.
The infant Picasso received his impressively long full name: Pablo Diego José Francisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno María de los Remedios Cipriano de la Santísima Trinidad Martyr Patricio Clito Ruíz y Picasso. Quite the mouthful for a baby!
Malaga’s oldest church with fascinating Moorish origins
Built in 1490, Santiago Apóstol proudly stands as Malaga’s oldest church, though its foundations tell a much older story.
Following the Reconquest of Spain by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1487, when Christian forces reclaimed Malaga from Moorish rule, all the city’s mosques were converted into Catholic churches.
The church was one of four Christian parishes established by the Catholic Monarchs, alongside the Parroquia de Los Santos Mártires (Church of the Sainted Martyrs), Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Church of Saint John the Baptist) and Iglesia del Sagrario (Church of the Tabernacle).
The architectural evidence of this transformation remains beautifully visible today, particularly in the striking bell tower that still reflects its Islamic origins.
Look out for the sealed Mudéjar-style doorway, too. This distinctive architectural style blends Islamic and Christian elements, creating the cultural fusion that defines much of Andalusian heritage.
Inside, you’ll discover a fascinating blend of Gothic and Baroque elements, with the original Mudéjar wooden ceiling hidden beneath later Baroque vaulting—architectural layers that tell the story of Malaga’s complex cultural evolution.
The church underwent major restoration work, completed in 2017, which returned the interior to its original bright, luminous state and revealed architectural details that had been hidden for centuries.
Perfect location for exploring Picasso’s early life
The church sits conveniently near Plaza de la Merced, where Picasso was born and where you’ll find the delightful Museo Casa Natal dedicated to the artist’s early life.
This makes Santiago Apóstol the perfect starting point for any Picasso pilgrimage through Malaga.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast following in Picasso’s footsteps or simply curious about Andalucía’s rich cultural tapestry, this atmospheric church offers a genuine glimpse into Malaga’s fascinating past.
The Malaga Guru team comprises individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds who share a common bond – a deep affection for the city of Malaga, its rich culture, and its warm-hearted inhabitants!