Marbella neighbors transform their street into a personal Santa’s Grotto

A tiny pedestrian-only street in Marbella is one of the most festive places in Andalusia. The streets are adorned with handmade ornaments and decorations made by residents.

Calle Cordoba, in Marbella, has become the perfect place to stop during the festive season. This enchanting enclave is filled with twinkling light, Christmas trees, crafts and sleighs. It’s located between Huerta de Los Cristales and Peñuelas, next to the now-demolished former Municipal Stadium Lorenzo Cuevas.

Marbella’s beautiful corner is the focus of hundreds of visitors each year, many of whom are drawn to it by the artistic work done by the residents who live in the approximately dozen houses that line the street. It’s like walking through a Christmas postcard. There are lights, Christmas trees and inflatable animals. Santa Clauses can be seen in the mailboxes. Nativity scenes can also be found.

A COVID neighbourhood project becomes a major tourist destination

The residents have spent many weeks decorating their street to make it a wonderland. What makes Calle Córdoba one of the most beautiful spots in the province of Malaga is the heartfelt effort and togetherness of its neighbours. In light of the health crisis that will occur in 2020, the neighbours decided to decorate their little corner with joy and light to celebrate the Christmas season.

The concept no doubt originates in the Andalucian culture of “verbena” – a street party organised and held by all the neighbours of a street in which everyone participates and fosters good relations.

Slowly, neighbours contributed their decorations, crafts and purchases. The event became a tourist attraction in the city. The custom, now in its fifth year consecutively, continues to grow. It draws crowds each season with new themes and more elaborate handmade details.