Located in the picturesque Guadalhorce Valley, Cártama stands as a captivating destination just 17 kilometers from Málaga. This municipality is renowned for its prominent production of citrus and meat products.
With a strategic location in the province, Cártama borders eight neighboring towns and benefits from excellent transportation connections to the capital. The two main urban centers, Cártama Pueblo and Cártama Estación, offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity, each with its own charm and distinct attractions.
This Andalusian municipality provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of southern Spain. For this, we recommend hiring a car in Málaga to easily access all points of interest.
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History of Cártama
The history of Cártama is marked by the influence of different cultures over the centuries. Its origins date back to Roman times when the city was known as Carthima and played a significant role as a strategic settlement in the region.
Later, during the Moorish occupation, Cártama became a prosperous agricultural and commercial center. In the 15th century, the city was reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs, leading to important restoration and construction works, giving rise to the architecture and monuments that can still be appreciated today.
Throughout the centuries, Cártama has experienced various historical events that have left their mark on the municipality, making it a place full of history and charm.
What to See and Do in Cártama
Cártama combines history, nature, and popular traditions. Its rich heritage is reflected in numerous historical monuments, in an environment surrounded by mountains and traversed by the Guadalhorce River, where various hiking routes can be undertaken.
We invite you to discover the richness of its heritage and immerse yourself in its culture, as well as to learn about the festivities that bring the streets of Cártama to life throughout the year.
What to See in Cártama
Cártama boasts numerous historical monuments, as well as churches, Roman ruins, and museums that bear witness to the passage of different civilizations that have inhabited the area, some of them perfectly preserved and of great beauty.
The Castle of Cártama
Located atop a hill, it is an impressive monument dating back to Moorish times. It is one of the few castles in the province of Málaga that retains its facade, albeit in a state of ruins. Its construction aimed to protect the city of Málaga from potential invasions.
During Roman times, when the precursor to the Moorish castle was first built, the banks of the Guadalhorce River, located near the city, were accessible by boat. Therefore, the castle was erected as a crucial line of defense, guarding the region against external threats.
The Church of San Pedro Apóstol
The Church of San Pedro, located in the historic center of Cártama, is a beautiful example of religious architecture. Its construction took place in the 16th century, on the foundations of an ancient mosque, following the capture of the city by the Catholic Monarchs and the expulsion of its Muslim residents.
This temple is a notable fusion of various architectural styles, including Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, with its tower, which was formerly the minaret of the mosque, still retaining its splendor to this day.
Hermitage of Our Lady of Remedies
The Church of Our Lady of Remedies, known as the Hermitage of Our Lady of Remedies, is a place of great devotion for the residents of Cártama. In this hermitage, you can find the image of the city’s patron saint, the Virgin of Remedies.
The chapel of the hermitage is the sacred place, serving as a meeting point for the faithful and a symbol of faith and devotion in the city. It is covered with a barrel vault, and it features the Camarín, a hexagonal plan, a six-panel vault, and decorations with paintings of birds and flowers on plinths and pilasters.
Nature and Hiking
This Andalusian municipality offers a variety of options to explore its mountainous surroundings. From paths in the Sierra de las Nieves to trails that cross the Guadalhorce River, there are routes for all levels and preferences.
Circular Path of Torrealquería
The Circular Path of Torrealquería is a circular route that surrounds the valley formed by the Espartales and Sierra Llana mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Guadalhorce Valley in some sections.
The starting and ending point is in Trascastillo, and the difficulty of this route is considered low, as it is a circular route with little elevation change.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Kilometers: 8.6 km
- Elevation: 400 m
- Estimated Location: Sierra de los Espartales and Sierra Llana
- Difficulty: Easy
Path of the Three Crosses
The Path of the Three Crosses is a linear hiking route that takes you from the town of Cártama to the Hermitage of the Three Crosses. Along this route, you can enjoy excellent views while crossing the Guadalhorce River and overcoming a steep elevation gain.
The starting point is in the “Vista al Valle” Urbanization in front of the Municipal Sports Center, and the endpoint is the Hermitage of the Three Crosses. The difficulty of this route is considered moderate to high due to the steep elevation gain.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 4 hours
- Kilometers: 14.5 km
- Elevation: 600 m
- Estimated Location: Cerro Quemado – Cerro del Acebuche
- Difficulty: Moderate to High
Circular Path Sierra de Los Espartales
The Circular Path Sierra de Los Espartales is a route that crosses the natural environment of this mountain range, offering a variety of landscapes and panoramic views.
The starting point is at Hacienda La Biznaga, and the endpoint is Pilar Alto. The difficulty of this route is moderate, and during the journey, you can appreciate the different types of vegetation found in the area, providing a unique landscape experience.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Kilometers: 10 km
- Elevation: 500 m
- Estimated Location: Sierra de Los Espartales
- Difficulty: Moderate
Popular Festivals and Cuisine
Cártama celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, where visitors can experience authentic Andalusian culture. The main festivities take place from the beginning of spring through the summer, coinciding with the region’s best weather.
Festival in Honor of the Virgin of Remedies
Every April 23rd, the locals come together to celebrate and pay tribute to their patron, the Virgin of Remedies. During this festival, an emotional pilgrimage to the hermitage takes place, where some of the participants ascend on their knees as a show of devotion.
Later, they carry the image of the Virgin and take her in procession through the streets of Cártama, making a special stop at the doors of the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, where she will remain throughout the festive period.
Patron Saint Festivities in Honor of San Isidro Labrador
Cártama celebrates the festivities in honor of San Isidro Labrador in Estación de Cártama from May 12th to 15th. It includes a variety of events and activities at the El Cruce Shopping Center, aimed at people of all ages.
During these festivities, there are concerts, children’s activities, a street beautification contest, a traditional pilgrimage, and a procession in honor of San Isidro Labrador.
Cártama Fair
The Cártama Fair is an annual event that attracts locals and visitors with its festive and traditional atmosphere. For several days, the streets of the municipality are filled with color, music, and joy.
The fair features numerous booths where you can enjoy live music, flamenco dancing, and a wide gastronomic offering. Additionally, there are rides for both children and adults, traditional games, and cultural activities for all tastes.
Gastronomy
The cuisine of Cártama is an experience based on local ingredients such as meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables, offering authentic and flavorful dishes. Highlights include “sopas hervías,” “cachorreñas,” “caldo poncima,” sardines, asparagus, and “patatas viudas” as main stews or hearty dishes.
Local sausages and cured meats such as “morcilla cartameña,” chorizo, “lomo en manteca,” and “manteca colorá” are famous in the area. In pastry, the “torta cartameña” and “fritillas” are delights you must try.
How to Get to Cártama
Cártama has good transportation connections, whether by car or public transport, including train or bus. This is mainly due to its proximity to the capital, Málaga, as many of its residents work in the capital and require suitable connections for their daily lives.
How to Get There by Public Transport
To access Cártama by public transport from Málaga, you can take the commuter train that connects Málaga with Álora (Line C-2) from María Zambrano or Victoria Kent stations and get off at Cártama station. Commuter trains usually have a regular frequency, and the journey to Cártama typically takes around 20-25 minutes.
By bus, there are bus lines connecting Málaga with Cártama, such as Line M-131 from the Metropolitan Transport Consortium of the Málaga Area. You can check the schedules and routes of different bus companies to find the most convenient option for you.
How to Get There by Car
Cártama is well-connected by road. If you are in Málaga, you can take the A-357 motorway towards Cártama. The distance between Málaga and Cártama is approximately 17 kilometers, and the estimated travel time is about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
From other cities, you can access the A-357 or A-384, depending on your starting point. Once on the motorway, follow the signs to Cártama.As you have your own vehicle, you will have the advantage of being able to move around at your own pace, being able to visit nearby villages such as Pizarra.
Map of Cártama
Below, you’ll find a map with the highlighted points of interest in Cártama. Explore this charming town and discover its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and popular festivals.
Cártama celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, where visitors can experience authentic Andalusian culture. The main festivities take place from the beginning of spring through the summer, coinciding with the region’s best weather.
