Monument to the Conquest of the Moon

The Monument to the Conquest of the Moon stands in the La Paz neighborhood of Malaga, a modest but distinctive sculpture commemorating humanity's first steps on the Moon. Built in 1970, just a year after the Apollo 11 mission, it is one of the few space-themed monuments of its kind in Spain.

What does the monument depict?

The sculpture was created by artist Marino Amaya. Its centerpiece is a metal globe representing Earth, mounted on four iron supports. Above the globe, three child figures climb on top of one another, forming a human tower and stretching their arms upward to "reach" the Moon. The composition captures humanity's drive to conquer space as a collective effort — one that, like the children's tower, depends on cooperation and mutual support to reach its goal.

The monument was raised as a tribute to the three Apollo 11 astronauts — Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Michael Collins — who became the first humans to reach the Moon's surface on July 21, 1969. The landing captured global attention, and Malaga marked the achievement with its own local monument, placed within the everyday urban fabric of the La Paz district.

How do you get there?

The monument sits in La Paz, a residential neighborhood east of Malaga's historic center. It's a quiet, largely local area, off the beaten path followed by most visitors heading for the old town, the cathedral, or the Alcazaba. The easiest way to reach it is by local bus or car — the surrounding streets are residential, with light traffic, so parking nearby is usually straightforward.

Combining a visit to the monument with a short walk through La Paz is worthwhile: it offers a glimpse of a more everyday, lived-in Malaga, quite different from the polished city center.

What can you see on site?

The sculpture itself is small and takes only a few minutes to see, but its symbolism and backstory make it a worthwhile stop for anyone drawn to unusual, thematic public monuments. It appeals particularly to visitors interested in the history of space exploration, and to those looking to explore Malaga beyond its standard tourist circuit.

Pay attention to the detail of the composition — the way the three child figures stack into a pyramid around the globe, forming a dynamic, upward-reaching shape. It's a subtle nod to the teamwork and determination behind the success of the Moon landing.

When is the best time to visit?

The monument can be viewed year-round, at any time of day — it stands in open public space and requires no admission ticket. Since it sits in a residential neighborhood, visiting during daytime hours lets you experience the area's everyday rhythm and gives a genuine feel for local Malaga life.

Frequently asked questions

Who created the monument? The sculpture was designed by Marino Amaya and completed in 1970.

What does the monument commemorate? It honors the Apollo 11 astronauts — Neil Armstrong, Edwin Aldrin and Michael Collins — who achieved the first human Moon landing on July 21, 1969.

Where exactly is the monument located? In the La Paz neighborhood of Malaga, east of the city center.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the monument stands in a public space and can be viewed free of charge at any time.