Benal-life.com
Guide for visitors and residents to Benalmadena and Arroyo de la Miel
THE HISTORY OF BENALMÁDENA AND ARROYO DE LA MIEL
The history of Benalmádena and Arroyo de la Miel is indeed fascinating, spanning centuries of different civilisations and transformations. Here’s a summary of the key historical points,
The area was initially settled by the Phoenicians around 500 BCE, as evidenced by the archaeological remains discovered in and around Benalmádena. The Romans followed and left their own marks, with various Roman developments uncovered and preserved along the coast.
The presence of the Moors in the area also shaped its history. The name Benalmádena is believed to be derived from the Arabic “Ibn al-ma’din,” meaning ‘children of the miners,’ possibly alluding to the rich ochre and iron ore deposits in the region. The moors inhabited the area for centuries, until the Christian Reconquista in 711 CE.
Following the Reconquista, the coast was abandoned due to the fear of Arab invasions from the sea. Benalmádena remained deserted for a long time. In the 1700s, Arroyo de la Miel was established with the development of paper mills, which brought employment opportunities. Agriculture, particularly vineyards, also began to thrive in the region over the next 200 years.
Until the late 1950s, Benalmádena was a small town to the west of Malaga, leading a quiet and peaceful life. However, with the rise of the Costa del Sol tourist industry, developers took interest in the area, leading to significant changes and the destruction of its historic past. The population grew rapidly, and Benalmadena Pueblo, Benalmadena Costa, and Arroyo de la Miel transformed into bustling urban centers, attracting residents and tourists from around the world.
The history of Benalmádena and Arroyo de la Miel reflects the dynamic nature of the region, with influences from various civilisations and the subsequent impact of modern development. It’s fascinating to see how these towns have evolved over time to become the vibrant places they are today.
ARROYO DE LA MIEL
Is a “Stream of Honey” in English. So where did this magical name of our village come from. Click here for the full story
HOW BENAL-LIFE CAME ABOUT?
There was a very little internet internet information about Benalmadena and Arroyo de la Miel back in the dark days of 2002 when we arrived here. We decided to fill the gap and Benal-life.com was launched early in 2003. When presented a guide to the Bars and Restaurants in the area. It took a while to compile the 1300 or so that existed at the time and as the years passed and more people discovered the “internet web” we added (hand drawn) maps, a forum and a review section that we hoped would be useful for visitors and residents. Trip advisor and Facebook must have seen what we were doing because a few years on they both launched and made those parts of our site more historical than functional, although the forum is archived and can still be viewed. Nowadays you can still write a review of any of the bars and restaurants in our area and they will be published on their web page and copied onto our facebook page.
We have lots of interesting photographs video clips of Benalmadena and Arroyo de la Miel some of them from way back when. Some in colour and many in black and white. Click here to see a slide show and links to the entire media library Bars – You are the Judge
Leaving your thoughts is important to help others decide where to eat or drink.
Tell us what you think about any Bar or Restaurant in Benalmadena..
Fill in a very simple form to leave your comments which will be posted on the page relating of that Bar or Restaurant
Click on the Judges image and make your Judgement
DON’T TAKE CHANCES BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED
BE WISE – BE COVERED – BE SUREAll of our travel insurance policies are underwritten by Inter Partner Assistance S.A. UK Branch, which is part of the AXA Group,
with worldwide medical and emergency services provided by AXA Travel Insurance Ltd, who have offices located around the world to ensure you can get the help you need, wherever you may be.Travelling to France or Spain with Brittany Ferries is so easy – and far less hassle than flying. Enjoy the freedom of taking your own car packed with everything you need to make the most of your time away. Avoid the hassle of airports, long queues and excess baggage charges and arrive closer with our choice cruise and high-speed sailings direct to the holiday regions – avoiding the long drive through northern France.
Start your holiday on board and enjoy everything from a great choice of dining, stylish bars and lounges, live entertainment and shopping. Or simply enjoy a good night’s sleep in your comfortable en-suite cabin and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.