The origins of the name Orange Square are obvious. Step into the picturesque plaza and you will immediately notice the grove of orange trees that fill the center of the square. Today the destination is a popular place for dining, as well as a key sightseeing spot that features some of Marbella’s oldest buildings.
Soak up the atmosphere of a historic square in the middle of Marbella’s Old Town. Orange Square dates back to 1485 and is laid out in a typical Spanish Christian design, with whitewashed houses and a town hall, a governor’s house and a chapel on the corners.
Explore the square to see some of these landmarks. Take photos of the balcony at the old governor’s house, an elegant 16th-century mansion. Stop at the Town Hall, built in 1568, which contains ornately decorated ceilings and religious artwork.
The Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation is hard to miss. Pause for a moment in this Baroque building, which dates back to 1618, and admire the 5,000-pipe organ.
Visit the Santiago Hermitage, a small chapel on the corner of the square. This simple yet picturesque building is the oldest Christian parish church in Marbella and was built in the 15th century. Admire the neo-Baroque sculptures of religious figures.
The square is not just a sightseeing destination. It’s also one of the best places to eat in Marbella. Dine on gourmet food or linger with a drink beneath the shade of the orange trees that gave the square its name.
Sample several local dishes with a tapas dinner from one of the restaurants lining the edges of the square. Cafés are also available for anyone wanting something quicker to eat or drink.
Orange Square is located in the heart of Marbella’s historic center. Walk to the square from other sights in the Old Town such as the Spanish Contemporary Engraving Museum. Travel to the square on a traditional horse and cart for an old-fashioned but enchanting journey through Marbella.
