Marbellas Emblematic Buildings

Marbella has a surprising number of iconic buildings, many serving as touristic reference points in the city and others are not so commonly known. We have put together a list of the 10 most emblematic buildings. Along with their locations, a bit about their history and types of property typically found nearby. Do you know them already? Have a look, you may be pleasantly surprised!

El Piruli or The Lantern – “The Copper Tower or The Lantern”.

This landmark tower marks the entrance to Marbella town center from the Golden Mile. Covered in copper, the tower was built during the Jesus Gil administration in the 90’. Designed by the architects Cepedano and Barrios as one of the symbols of Marbella. Located in front of Marbellas Congress center and surrounded by gardens, the centerpiece of the busy roundabout distributing traffic throughout the city of Marbella. The gardens are seasonal and regularly updated. Property in this area includes luxury independent villas, gated communities and to the beach side, Marbella town centers most exclusive apartment complexes.

Marbella Town Hall – “Plaza de Los Naranjos or Orange Square”.

Marbellas town hall is located in the heart of the Old Town, and the building itself was built in 1568. On the front of the building is a sun dial and some commemorative stone inscriptions perfectly conserved. One of these inscriptions dates back to June 1485 when Marbella town was re-conquered from the Moors. To the left is the Old Governor’s House which dates back to 1552 and retains its original stone façade. A stone fountain is also located in the square and dates back to 1504, erected by the first Mayor of Christian Marbella. Property in the area include traditional whitewashed buildings, many modernized, with shops and restaurants below and apartments above. As well as traditional family homes with classical central courtyards many passed down from generation to generation.

Marbellas main Church – “Iglesia de la Encarnación”.

Built in 1505, this Church is located within walking distance to the Town Hall in the old town. It was the starting point for the construction of religious buildings in the town. Its bell tower was believed to be built in 1618. This church is one of Marbellas most popular for weddings, baptisms, funerals and annual religious festivities. Properties in this area are similar to those that surround the town hall. As well as some in the area being built along the Roman wall making the properties themselves of particular historical importance.

Marbella Lighthouse – “El Faro”

Built in 1864 and set right on the beach in Marbella center, opposite Marbella port. Properties in the area are typical tower blocks of apartments, many refurbished. Surrounded by amenities and services and a few steps away from the sea and promenade.

Edif. Skol – One of the first buildings of its type in Marbella.

Opened in 1963 as an apart-hotel, now consisting of 3 privately owned apartments. Located front line to the beach in Marbella town. An exemplary architectural building of its era. Designed by the renowned Modern Movement architect Manuel Jaen. The Skol offers tropical gardens with 3 swimming pools, one for adults, one for families and the third a children’s pool. Through the gardens and out onto the beachfront promenade. A 24hrs reception service. Many privately owned properties within the Skol have been completely refurbished and renovated, bringing them up to today’s standards. Creating modern functional properties with panoramic views to the sea, in an unbeatable location.

PYR Hotel – An Andalusian style hotel beach side in Puerto Banus.

A stone’s throw away from the beach and the Marina itself. Extremely well located and surrounded by shops, restaurants and all services. The hotel features 319 bright and fully equipped studio apartments, distributed in 3 buildings. With a reception entrance and concierge service, 2 outdoor swimming pools, lush gardens, paddle and tennis courts and a Mediterranean restaurant. Property beach side in the area comprise apartment buildings ranging from good sized 2 bedroom properties to large luxury apartments and penthouses.

Marbella Club Hotel – The main founder was Alfonso Von Hohenlohe.

He purchased the original “Finca” in the 50’s, first as a family getaway to then become one of Marbellas greatest icons. The Marbella Club Hotel, originally a family villa with guest houses located front line beach between Marbella Town and Puerto Banus. The hotel became one of the most sought after holiday destinations in Southern Europe. Attracting VIP clientele from all over the world and all walks of life, to experience a luxury stay in a unique setting. Surrounding the Marbella Club are some of Marbellas most expensive beach side and front line beach homes. Varying from large “Finca style” family homes (from a similar period). To brand new modern high-tech on demand homes, meeting clients every need in today’s busy lifestyles.

Puente Romano Hotel

In 1974 the Puente Romano Hotel was built front line on the beach by the same Alfonso Von Hohenlohe. With such success from the Marbella Club Hotel this new project was named after the Roman bridge set on the plot. Many longstanding guests continue to frequent both hotels on a regular basis. This hotel also comprises a large section of privately owned residences, within the grounds. A famous tennis club and many magnificent restaurants.

Don Carlos Hotel – An iconic tower built in the 70’s.

With the unique architectural style of the time that could and can still be seen for miles. Set East of Marbella town, front line to the beach in the area of Elviria. A boutique hotel with 1.600m2 of wellness area and over 20.000m2 of tropical gardens with exotic plants, unique at the time. Famous for its design and gastronomy. One of the first establishments in Andalusia to address tourism with conventions and incentives. Its beach club, now part of the “Nikki Beach” group. Renowned in the 70’s for its unique parties, that it continues to host today. Top gastronomy the hotel continues to excel throughout the years. Properties it the area range from stylish gated beach communities to independent private luxury villas right on the beach.

Torre Real – Also known as Edif. Diana

It is located in the area of Rio Real, just East of Marbella town. On the A-7 old coast road next to Rio Real Golf course. Built between the 1950-1970’s, it was the first of its kind and a beacon of residential modern-day communal living at the time. This high rise tower block can be seen from afar. It is 41mtrs above sea level at its highest and 15mtrs above sea level at its lowest points. 20 floors in height and 1 underground car parking level. A residential apartment community, set on a large plot, with tropical gardens. 2 pools and a tennis court, this gated community is close to all amenities and facilities. Many properties in this block have been modernized and updated since the 1970’s. Always maintaining their wonderful sea views from the west, east and south and views to the golf and mountains from the northern side.

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