Located in the heart of Andalusia, the picturesque village of Humilladero is a destination that captivates its visitors with its rustic charm and rich history.
Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, this small but welcoming village is a hidden gem that offers an authentic experience of rural life on the peninsula. With its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and hospitality that warms the soul, Humilladero invites travelers to immerse themselves in a vibrant local culture and a tradition that has endured over the centuries.
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History of Humilladero
Just 5 km from the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra, Humilladero corresponds to the typical structure of the Muslim-origin villages in the province of Malaga. Its name comes from a key event during the conquest of Antequera, when the infante don Fernando swore not to sheathe his sword until he conquered the city.
After the conquest in 1410, it started as a district of Antequera, but by the 18th century, with around 200 inhabitants, it began to have its own identity and, finally, in 1810 it became an independent municipality, which spurred considerable growth both in population and urbanism.
The 20th century was crucial for Humilladero as many empty areas began to be urbanized, forming a more compact urban nucleus and expanding its population to over 3,000 inhabitants it has today.
What to Do and See in Humilladero
With a population of around 3,300 inhabitants and an area of approximately 39 square kilometers, Humilladero is a charming small municipality that houses numerous points of interest that you shouldn’t miss during your visit.
What to See in Humilladero
Cruz de Humilladero
At the entrance of the town of Humilladero stands the Cruz de Humilladero which, more than just a monument, is a historical emblem of the Reconquista. According to tradition, it was here that Infante Don Fernando knelt in humility before his troops and swore to keep his sword unsheathed until he achieved the conquest of Antequera. Upon returning victorious from the battle, they returned to this place and erected a cross as a commemoration of this moment.
Undoubtedly, a vestige of a historic event that changed the course of a town.
Plaza de la Constitución
As in many Andalusian villages, the main square is the heart of social life in Humilladero. Surrounded by buildings with typical Andalusian architecture, it’s the perfect place to experience the daily life of the village.
Ermita del apóstol Santiago
Located in Los Carvajales, within the town of Humilladero. Its origin dates back to the 18th century and has remained intact since then, preserving a small altar and a painting of the apostle Santiago.
Laguna de Fuente de Piedra
Just a short and delightful journey of only 5 km away lies the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra, a true natural treasure. Here, not only will you find a beautiful refuge to enjoy all year round, but during the spring and the first months of summer, it fills with some curious tenants: the flamingos.
In fact, this lagoon is one of the few places in Europe where these curious birds come to nest every year. Admission is free, and there are walking trails and observation points available.
If you want to see the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra in all its splendor, we recommend visiting during the spring and the first months of summer. You can find more information on the website of natural spaces of the Junta de Andalucía.
Nature and Hiking
Route to Laguna de la Ratosa
Your journey begins in Humilladero, passing through the educational and entertaining Cortijo de Santillán and takes you through the district of Los Carvajales. The final destination is the serene Laguna de la Ratosa, a natural sanctuary for various bird species.
This 10 km itinerary offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 2-2.5 hours
- Kilometers: 10 kilometers (one way)
- Estimated Location: Humilladero, N-451 following the direction to the district of Los Carvajales
- Difficulty: medium
Route to Laguna de Fuente Piedra
Explore the beauty of Humilladero and its surroundings passing through the Realenga and culminating at Cerro del Palo, where the Reception and Interpretation Center of the Reserve is located. Along its 6 kilometers, this itinerary offers an immersive experience in local nature and culture.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Kilometers: 6 kilometers (one way)
- Estimated Location: Humilladero
- Difficulty: low
Route to Sierra de Humilladero
This 12-kilometer route first takes you to the Sierrecilla, a space equipped with tables, chairs, and grills for a snack or meal. Then, it continues towards Pico “Pollo,” from where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the natural reserve of Laguna de Fuente de Piedra and the Vega de Antequera. Finally, the route culminates with the ascent to “Puntal,” which offers even more spectacular views.
Points of Interest
- Estimated Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Kilometers: 7 kilometers (one way)
- Estimated Location: Humilladero
- Difficulty: medium
Popular Festivals
Pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Rosary
On October 7th, Humilladero comes to life with the celebration of the pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Rosary, its most popular religious celebration. On that day, a grand feast is held for the entire town and religious services take place for three days, culminating in a procession in honor of the Patron Saint of Humilladero.
Candlemas Festival
On the night of February 1st, the Candlemas festival is celebrated, during which the residents prepare bonfires in the streets of the village. During the festival, meats and sardines are cooked over the bonfire embers and accompanied by traditional sweet wine. It is common for residents and visitors to gather around the bonfires to sing and dance popular songs.
Carnival of Humilladero
The carnival of Humilladero, recognized as a Tourist Interest Festival by the Provincial Council of Malaga, is one of the most prominent and anticipated events in the region. Usually celebrated in February or March (before Lent), this event is the epitome of joy and color. During the parade, costumes and creativity come to life, filling the streets with an incomparable festive atmosphere. And as night falls, excitement peaks with the awarding of prizes for the best costumes.
Holy Week
Although Holy Week in Humilladero is not as renowned as that of its neighbor Antequera, on Good Friday the area fills with curious spectators to see the brotherhood of Los Dolores, processing the “Cristo de las niñas” known for being carried by women.
How to Get to Humilladero
How to Get There by Public Transport
Bus
The Málaga-Humilladero route is usually operated by ALSA and the travel time can vary from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and intermediate stops.
The ticket cost varies from 6 to 10 euros depending on the season and availability. We recommend checking the ALSA website or visiting the bus station in Málaga or Humilladero for more information on schedules and fares.
Train
You can also take a suburban train from Málaga to Humilladero from María Zambrano station, which is the main railway station in the city.
Humilladero does not have a train station, so you would have to travel to Antequera-Santa Ana station and then take a taxi for the 6 kilometers separating the station from Humilladero. The travel time by train is considerably shorter than by bus or car, usually around 30 minutes.
The ticket cost is affordable, ranging from 3 to 5 euros depending on the type of ticket and fare. You can check here for prices and schedules.
How to Get There by Car to Humilladero
From Málaga Airport to Humilladero by car takes approximately one hour. To get there, you should first exit the airport and take the A-7 motorway towards Málaga. From there, continue on the A-7 until reaching exit 231, which will take you onto the A-343 road. Follow this road following the signs to Humilladero until you reach your destination.
If you are planning a road trip in the area, you can also take the opportunity to visit Antequera, a city rich in history and culture where you can explore impressive monuments such as the Alcazaba, the Dolmen of Menga, or the Collegiate Church of Santa María. Not far from there is El Torcal de Antequera, a natural area famous for its extraordinary karst rock formations, offering a lunar-like landscape and a unique experience for geology and nature lovers. If you prefer something more cultural, Mollina is known for its wine production, allowing you to enjoy wine tastings and visit the renowned local wineries. Less than 30 kilometers from Humilladero is Archidona, with its peculiar orthogonal square.
Additionally, if you need to rent a car for your trip, we recommend to search for all inclusive car hire options in Malaga Airport to get the best deals. You can find various car rental companies that will provide you with affordable and all-inclusive rental options to make your trip easier.
Map of Humilladero
This map provides you with a practical visual guide to the most prominent tourist attractions of Humilladero mentioned in this post. Use it to plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss any of the town’s main attractions.
If you want more information about Humilladero, you can consult it on the Town Hall’s website.
