The Romans left behind far more than buildings and archaeological remains. They also transformed the area through roads, infrastructure and economic activities that contributed to the region’s development.

Excavations carried out over recent decades have uncovered numerous remains that provide valuable insight into everyday life nearly two thousand years ago. Among the most significant discoveries is a sculpture popularly known as the Venus of Fuengirola, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of that period.

Did You Know?

The Roman remains found in Fuengirola show that the city formed part of some of the main trade routes in the western Mediterranean.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, different peoples settled in the area until the arrival of the Muslims in the Iberian Peninsula. During the Andalusian period, the city became known as Sohail, a name that survives today in one of its most iconic landmarks: Sohail Castle.

The Muslims strengthened the strategic importance of the settlement, particularly because of its privileged location by the sea. From here, they were able to control part of the coastline and protect the maritime routes that connected different areas of the Mediterranean.

Built on a hill overlooking the mouth of the Fuengirola River, the fortress became one of the most important defensive structures along the Málaga coastline.

Visit It Today

Sohail Castle is one of the city's most recognisable symbols. In addition to offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean, it hosts concerts, festivals and cultural events throughout the year, transforming this historic monument into a vibrant gathering place.

The exact origin of the name Fuengirola continues to spark the interest of historians and researchers. Several theories exist regarding its origins, although one of the most widely accepted links it to the presence of Genoese sailors and merchants along this stretch of coast during the Middle Ages.

Whatever its true origin may be, the current name began to take shape after the Christian conquest of the territory and has accompanied the city through centuries of transformation and growth.

Historical Curiosity

Throughout its history, Fuengirola has been known by different names, reflecting the various cultures that settled here and left their mark on the area.

Fuengirola’s relationship with the Mediterranean has been constant since its earliest days. For centuries, fishing was one of the town’s main economic activities, shaping its customs, traditions and way of life.

Traditional jábegas fishing boats, local fishermen, ancestral fishing techniques and a cuisine deeply connected to the sea remain essential parts of the city’s identity. This maritime heritage can still be experienced today in historic neighbourhoods such as Los Boliches and in the traditional seafaring celebrations held every summer.

Did You Know?

Many of Fuengirola’s most iconic dishes, including the famous espetos de sardinas (sardines grilled over an open fire), originate from traditional fishing and cooking techniques passed down from generation to generation.

Long before it was known as Fuengirola, this territory was called Suel, a Roman city that became one of the most important settlements in the province of Baetica. Its privileged location by the sea and its strong commercial connections encouraged the growth of a population devoted to fishing, agriculture and maritime trade.

Suel was so significant that it was mentioned in the writings of classical geographers and historians. For centuries, the city prospered thanks to its port activity and the production of salted fish products, one of the most highly valued commodities in the Roman Empire.

Visit It Today

The Roman legacy can still be discovered in several locations throughout Fuengirola. One of the most important is Finca del Secretario, one of the municipality’s most significant archaeological sites, where visitors can see the remains of Roman baths, industrial facilities and structures associated with the production of salted fish.

The modern history of Fuengirola was shaped by a decisive event: its administrative independence from Mijas in 1841. From that moment onwards, the town entered a new period of growth and development.

The arrival of the railway at the beginning of the twentieth century improved connections with Málaga and boosted commercial activity. However, it was during the second half of the last century that Fuengirola underwent an unprecedented transformation thanks to the rise of tourism.

What had been a quiet fishing town for generations began attracting national and international visitors drawn by its climate, beaches and quality of life.

Timeline

1st Century – Suel reaches its peak during the Roman period.

10th Century – The city becomes part of Al-Andalus under the name Sohail.

1485 – The area comes under Christian rule.

1841 – Fuengirola becomes an independent municipality.

1916 – The arrival of the railway improves communications.

1960s – The major tourism boom of the Costa del Sol begins.

Today – Fuengirola is established as a cosmopolitan, modern and welcoming city open to the world.