Nerja has a history going back to pre-historic times, as evidenced by the Nerja caves that were only discovered recently in 1959. The Romans had a settlement here, which they called “Detunda”. Remains of this were found in the adjacent village of Maro. Later, the area was under the control of the Moor, for more than 700 years. The Moorish influence is still evident in the town. The Moors named Nerja “Narixa”, which means “abundant spring”. A thriving trade was built up, and many products were exported, including silk and agricultural products.

The Moors were driven out by the Christians in the 15^th Century. The resulting loss of trade with North Africa caused hardship, and Nerja only survived thank to its agriculture. In the early 19^th Century, most of Spain was under the control of France. Nerja was fortified by the French, but was attacked by the British, who destroyed the defences.

There was an earthquake on Christmas Day 1884, which caused substantial damage and loss of life. There was also considerable hardship in the area during and after the Spanish Civil War, and in the years after the Second World War.

Until the advent of tourism, Nerja remained a small, quiet, not very prosperous village. For some reason, Nerja was largely ignored as tourism grew in other parts of the Costa Del Sol from the 1960’s, and it was not until the 1980’s that tourism, and prosperity, finally arrived in Nerja.

With the local enviroment carefully controlled, Nerja has become a delightful holiday destination for thousands of British and European holidaymakers each year.