Mayor visits new Bil-Bil Castle. Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena FB
The first half of 2026 has looked like a building site on Benalmadena’s front, but things are starting to look good at last. Workers have finally finished the major project to update Castillo El Bil-Bil in Benalmadena. The local council invested almost €1 million to protect this key heritage site and boost its role in tourism and culture across the Costa del Sol.
Funding sources behind comprehensive upgrades
Council officials allocated €654,000 from European funds linked to national resilience programmes. Benalmadena council covered the remaining costs. This budget supported full modernisation of facilities, better accessibility throughout the building, interior restorations, facade repairs, better climate systems and energy efficiency steps such as new photovoltaic panels.
Local politicians praise heritage achievements
Juan Antonio Lara, mayor of Benalmadena, described the project as one of the largest recent efforts in local historic preservation. Lara said that El Bil-Bil now appears refreshed, easier to reach, more energy efficient and ready to serve as a leading cultural and tourist reference for the city.
Lara visited the site with Presi Aguilera, councillor for heritage and tourism, and stressed how this work recovers fresh areas for residents and guests while strengthening El Bil-Bil as an icon of the Costa del Sol and a showcase for Benalmadena’s identity.
New facilities better visitor experience
The council has created a dedicated tourist information office inside the castle. Additional zones now promote local history, culture and gastronomy, giving visitors a richer experience of the quirky little castle with elements of characteristic Benalmadena traditions.
The initiative has been another step in the right direction in the council plans to strengthen tourist and cultural assets across the town. Improved conservation makes sure El Bil-Bil continues drawing guests year-round and supports ongoing activities in social, cultural and tourism fields that project a positive image of the area both in Spain and internationally.
The project represents a clear commitment to balancing historic protection with modern demands, making Benalmadena stronger for future visitors seeking authentic experiences on the Costa del Sol.
