Cútar Transforms Into Medieval Souk for 22nd Fiesta del Monfí

The whitewashed mountain village of Cútar is stepping back in time as it hosts the 22nd edition of the Fiesta del Monfí this upcoming weekend, in mid-October 2026. Nestled in the hills of the Axarquía, the village transforms its streets and plazas into a vibrant medieval souk, honouring its deep Andalusi and Moorish heritage.

For anyone staying along the coast in Nerja or surrounding towns, this annual celebration makes a captivating inland day trip. During the festival weekend, the quiet mountain alleys are filled with artisan stalls, period costumes, evocative music, and traditional regional gastronomy, offering a rare glimpse into the area's rich historical roots.

A Medieval Souk in the Mountains

The Fiesta del Monfí pays tribute to the *monfíes*—outlaws of Moorish descent who took refuge in the rugged terrain of the Axarquía mountains during the turbulent centuries following the Christian Reconquista. To honour this legacy, Cútar completely reimagines its historic core as an authentic open-air souk.

Strolling along the cobblestone pathways, visitors will encounter artisan vendors showcasing handcrafted goods, spices, and traditional wares. Locals and performers dress in period attire, lending an immersive, theatrical atmosphere to the entire village.

Music, Crafts, and Andalusi Gastronomy

Throughout the weekend, the celebration features a wide-ranging schedule of cultural activities. Visitors can take part in hands-on workshops, explore historical exhibitions detailing the town's Moorish past, and enjoy live traditional music and performances echoing through the plazas.

Food is another central pillar of the Fiesta del Monfí. Stalls and village taverns offer traditional local gastronomy, highlighting authentic Axarquía flavours and historic Andalusi recipes. It is an ideal setting to sample regional specialities while soaking up the sights and sounds of the medieval market.

Visiting Cútar from Nerja

Cútar is located roughly 45 to 50 minutes inland by car from Nerja, accessed via the coastal A-7 motorway before heading north into the scenic hills through Vélez-Málaga and Benamocarra or El Borge. Because the village's winding streets are converted into market spaces, arriving earlier in the day is recommended to find parking outside the historic centre and enjoy the festivities at a leisurely pace.

Good to know

• Dates: This upcoming weekend, mid-October 2026 (XXII edition).
• Location: Streets and plazas of Cútar, Axarquía, Málaga.
• Admission: Open access to the public.
• Highlights: Medieval souk, artisan market, historical exhibitions, music performances, workshops, and traditional Andalusi gastronomy.
• Getting there: Best reached by car from Nerja via the A-7 towards Vélez-Málaga, continuing inland along local mountain roads.