Phoenicians arrive
Phoenicians establish an early settlement for trading here, attracted by the strategic coastal location.
Fuengirola timeline
Fuengirola history timeline spans around 2,700 years. See its pivotal points below.
800 BCE
100 BCE – 400 CE
Roman Era
Romans take over, naming the area “Suel”, leaving behind architectural remnants like villas and baths.
400 – 900 CE
Invasions & destruction
The area is occupied by Vandals, Byzantines and other invadors. Historians believe the original settlement was abandoned because of constant enemy raids, and possibly, a tsunami.
c. 950 CE
Islamic fortification
The Caliph of Cordoba, Abd-ar-Rahman III, orders the building of Sohail Castle at the site of the previous Phoenician and Roman settlement. The area flourishes under Moorish rule.
1485
Reconquista
Christian forces capture the area as part of the “Reconquista”, which was the series of military campaigns that European Christian kingdoms waged against the Muslim kingdoms.
1515
Placed under Mijas administration
Fuengirola’s appointed Christian warden, Alonso de Mesa, is convicted of smuggling and corruption, and Fuengirola is placed under the administration of Mijas.
1810
Battle of Fuengirola
In 1810, Spain belongs to Napoleon. Anglo-Spanish forces try to take Fuengirola castle, but Napoleon’s troops, formed of Polish garrisons, defend the castle successfully.
1841
Municipal independence
Fuengirola becomes administratively independent from Mijas. However, Fuengirola loses vast areas of land to Mijas.
Early 1900s
Gradual development
Fuengirola experiences modest growth through fishing and agriculture.
1936 – 1939
Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War brings chaos, interrupting the building works for a new Fuengirola port, and the town’s old church is destroyed.
1960s
Tourist boom
Fuengirola transforms into a major tourist destination and sees rapid urban development.
Today
Contemporary Fuengirola
Modern Fuengirola thrives as a multicultural tourist hub with a strong local and expat community.
About Fuengirola History Timeline
As you can see, Fuengirola is a coveted spot. For millennia, its strategic location has made it the perfect place for trade, defence and recreation.
The town has attracted a myriad of civilizations, traders and invaders to its shores, including Phoenicians, Romans, Goths, Byzantines, Moors, Christians, and even Napoleon’s troops—only to be finally explored and conquered by the humble tourist.
I admire the way Fuengirola has adapted, transformed and thrived through these changes, each era adding a layer to its heritage, and each visitor and leaving a distinct mark on the town.
Hungry for more? Discover 4 cool facts about Fuengirola’s history, explore more articles on the blog, and come
