Torremolinos:
History, Pride, and Diversity
From a Fishing Village to a Symbol of Freedom
Located on the Costa del Sol, Torremolinos has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, with traces of early settlements found in nearby caves. For centuries, it remained a humble fishing village until the 1950s, when it experienced an unprecedented tourism boom, becoming one of Europe’s most popular holiday.
A Cradle of the LGTBIQA+ Movement in Spain
During the 1960s, under Franco’s dictatorship, Torremolinos stood out as a liberal and cosmopolitan enclave. In 1962, it became home to Spain’s first openly gay bar, Tony’s Bar. The nearby Pasaje Begoña turned into a vibrant hub of nightlife and sexual freedom, drawing LGTBIQA+ individuals from across the globe.
However, this openness wasn’t without consequence. In 1971, a major police raid under the Franco regime took place in the Pasaje Begoña, resulting in over 100 arrests and the closure of several venues. This crackdown became a pivotal moment in Spain’s LGTBIQA+ rights movement.
Recognition and Historical Memory
Despite the repression, Torremolinos never lost its inclusive spirit. In 2018, Pasaje Begoña was officially declared a Site of Historical and Democratic Memory by the Andalusian government, honoring its significance in the LGTBIQA+ history of Spain.
Pride and Contemporary Activism
Today, Torremolinos is internationally recognized for its vibrant Pride celebrations, which attract thousands of visitors annually. The town also hosts several associations dedicated to equality and LGTBIQA+ rights, further cementing its identity as a diverse, welcoming, and progressive destination.
Tourism & Culture
Torremolinos offers a unique blend of sun, sea, history, and modern culture. Once a humble fishing village, today it is a vibrant coastal town with a cosmopolitan identity. Its beaches are among the most famous on the Costa del Sol, including La Carihuela, Bajondillo, and Playamar, each with its own charm and a wide range of beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood.
But Torremolinos is more than just beach life. The town is home to important cultural and historical sites such as:
- Casa de los Navajas: A neo-Mudéjar-style palace overlooking the sea, ideal for photography and cultural visits.
- Calle San Miguel: The commercial heart of the town, full of local shops, tapas bars, and history.
- Centro Cultural Pablo Ruiz Picasso: A hub for exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
- Molino de Inca Botanical Garden: A peaceful natural space with fountains, birds, and over 400 species of plants.
Torremolinos also embraces the arts. Throughout the year, the town hosts exhibitions, theater productions, dance performances, and film screenings — many of them open-air and free to the public.
Whether you’re strolling through its historic streets, dancing at a flamenco show, or watching the sunset from a chiringuito, Torremolinos welcomes you with a mix of Andalusian tradition and modern flair.
Events in Torremolinos 2025
Torremolinos offers a vibrant and diverse agenda throughout the year. Here are some of the most important events in 2025
May 30th to June 7th
Pride Torremolinos 2025
LGTBIQA+ Pride celebration featuring activities such as health marathons, exhibitions, workshops, cinema, conferences, children’s games, contests, and book presentations. The main days will be June 5 to 7, with performances by artists like Merche, Ladilla Rusa, Sonia y Selena, Salma, Melody, and Álvaro Mayo.
June 15th to 18th
Festival de las Culturas
Plaza de la Nogalera will host performances, traditional cuisine, and crafts from 15 different countries.
June 23th
The Night of San Juan
During this festival, it is customary to head to the beaches to light bonfires and take part in various traditions. The rituals typically begin around midnight, with one of the most deeply rooted customs being to dip one’s feet in the sea. This moment also marks the ideal time to ignite the bonfires.
July 18th and 19th
Puro Latino Fest Torremolinos
Urban music festival with international artists, held at the Torremolinos Fairgrounds
SEPTEMBER 29Th to October 2nd
Pilgrimage and Feria de San Miguel
From around September 29 to October 2, the festivities take over Torremolinos—by day in the town center and by night at the fairgrounds, where music, dancing, food, and fun continue until dawn. The Day Fair kicks off in the historic center, featuring the traditional free pork stew. A few days earlier, the beloved San Miguel pilgrimage is celebrated, with colorfully decorated ox-drawn carts making their way to the chapel in Los Pinares de los Manantiales, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere.
SPORTS IN Torremolinos:
Torremolinos promotes physical activity and sports for all audiences. Some of the options available in 2025 include:
Permanent orientation circuits: Three routes adapted to different levels in the urban center, around the San Miguel Palace, and the Battery Park.
Functional circuit on the Promenade: Six-kilometer route with stations every 500 meters for fitness exercises, with difficulty levels from beginner to expert.
Mountain and cycling routes: Center for mountain running with signposted routes of different levels, and mountain biking circuits in the sierra.
Specific sports activities: Aerosalsa, aquafitness, body tonic, indoor cycling, gap, among others, offered by the Sports Delegation of the Torremolinos City Council.
LGTBIQA+ ASSOCIATIONS
