Malaga residents have welcomed the public into their historic shared courtyards this Tuesday, 5 May, launching an annual celebration of communal living. These traditional spaces, located within La Trinidad and El Perchel neighbourhoods, provide a glimpse into a lifestyle defined by mutual support and harmonious co-living rather than private isolation. Anyone can explore the grounds until May 9 and will be warmly welcome to participate in historical walks and cultural talks that define this unique social experiment.

Community togetherness beat floral competition

Flowers cascading down whitewashed walls may well rival the famous displays in Cordoba patios, yet the real focus is on human interaction rather than individual spaces. These patios function as open-air living spaces where neighbours can, and do, share daily life, shared chores, and conversation. Maintaining these spaces requires year-round neighbourly dedication from those residing in the district, making sure that the local identity remains intact.

Participants view this week as a demonstration of social harmony rather than a simple contest for the most decorative garden, like in Cordoba. Everyone is safe; no one will be robbed, no one will dirty the area with graffiti or drop litter; everyone paints, hangs pictures, waters the plants and cleans the space.

Preserving social legacy in historic districts

Historical structures dating back to the 19th century continue to serve as essential residential spaces for the elderly. Recent renovation projects have helped maintain these buildings, allowing dozens of potentially vulnerable citizens to live with dignity and consistent care. Local residents stress that preserving such traditions is vital for maintaining the spirit of Malaga as well as looking after eachother. Such environments provide much-needed activity and social engagement for older generations who might otherwise face loneliness.

Challenges facing traditional neighbourhood fife

Concerns regarding the expansion of tourist accommodation weigh heavily on the minds of those living in these districts. Many fear that the rise of holiday rentals threatens the long-term viability of affordable social housing and their neighbourhoods. Local activists argue for more residential stability and fewer short-term lets to make sure that neighbourhood life continues to thrive.

Diminishing social participation and a lack of interest from younger generations present even more hurdles for the future of this tradition. Greater financial assistance and better incentives from authorities are now required to protect these living monuments of working-class history. The “Corralones” are open for everyone to visit until May 9.

Great news for those on the nautical scene, A refurbishment programme worth more than a whopping €3.6 million, has been approved for Benalmadena Marina to upgrade facilities and adapt the port to meet current nautical demands. Decisions were confirmed during a recent board meeting of the Puerto Deportivo, where several projects were authorised to improve much needed infrastructure and services. 

Plans include a major overhaul of the nautical centre, to enable the marina to better serve professionals and visitors. Works are looking to modernise installations and go toward ensuring the building meets present-day operational requirements.

Infrastructure and safety upgrades included

Investment will also support improvements to the port’s electrical system, for a more energy efficient and reliable power supply across the marina. Officials approved tender documents for this work during the same meeting, reinforcing the port’s focus on functionality and safety.

Bigger security measures form another part of the plan, with brand new access control barriers set to regulate entry to port areas. These additions are hoping to strengthen monitoring and improve the overall management of the facilities.

Breakwater project to strengthen protection

Coastal defence is another area included in the project. A contract has been awarded to draft a project for containment and breakwater works near the port entrance. This initiative aims to protect the marina from adverse weather conditions and improve operational resilience.

Broader management and financial steps

Board discussions went onto construction plans, covering internal organisational matters and financial oversight. Preparation of the 2025 annual accounts and adjustments to accounting balances were also addressed, reflecting ongoing administrative management of the marina. 

The Benalmadena Marina is one of the busiest, well loved and important on the Andalusian coast, because of its beautiful design and interior architecture, the number of berths and the wide range of leisure and entertainment options it offers.

Community spirit is proving to be a powerful force in Fuengirola and Mijas this week. Save a Life, the dedicated local charity focused on the installation of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), is accelerating its mission to protect everyone on the Costa del Sol. Recent days have seen a flurry of activity, with new devices appearing in key locations, making sure that emergency medical assistance is never far away.

Age Concern expands safety net in Los Boliches

Age Concern Fuengirola, Mijas & Benalmadena recently unveiled their second life-saving device in collaboration with the Save a Life team. This specific unit now sits outside the Bonanza Pharmacy on Calle San Silvestre in Los Boliches. This addition follows the successful placement of a previous unit at the local community centre.

Funding for these vital tools came directly from the generosity of the public. Supporters raised the necessary capital during a highly successful gala dinner held toward the end of last year. Local volunteers gathered today to mark the occasion, many wearing small red knitted hearts crafted by the Knit and Natter group. This gesture served as a touching tribute to the “heart” of the campaign.

Leadership changes within the organisation also took place during the event. Outgoing President Linda Ewen and Secretary Michelle Greenwood welcomed the newly elected President, Sue Pithouse, and Secretary, Lorraine Smart.

Calahonda and Mijas road expand the movement

Calahonda residents also received a boost to their local safety infrastructure recently. Club la Naranja facilitated the installation of an AED on Calle de Madrid, making this the fifth device funded by the club within this specific Mijas neighbourhood. Such consistent support from local businesses is proving essential in building a comprehensive network of cardiac safety.

Retailers are getting involved in creative ways too. Yorkshire Linen on the Mijas Road hosted a bustling charity market on Saturday, 2 May. Stalls packed with handmade arts, crafts, honey, and jewellery drew large crowds. Yorkshire Linen’s Steph announced a staggering €850 was raised from the raffle alone, a figure that will go directly toward purchasing more AED hardware.

Outstanding community effort

Founders Gerry and Jenny Hannan admit that the growth of the campaign has far exceeded their initial expectations. Public engagement has turned a small project into a region-wide safety drive.

Gerry remains humble about the achievements, saying that if these efforts manage to save even one single life, every hour spent fundraising will have been entirely worth it. As the “Save a Life” banner moves into more urbanisations, the Costa del Sol is becoming a much safer place for everyone.

The Oscar goes to…