Sayalonga is a charming village located in the Axarquía region, in the province of Málaga, Andalusia, southern Spain.
This picturesque village is located about 41 kilometers east of Málaga and is surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Sierra Almijara.
Sayalonga offers picturesque views of both the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, which is just a short distance away.

Geography and Nature

Sayalonga is located on a hill, which gives it panoramic views of the region.
The natural environment consists of fertile valleys and hills covered with vineyards, olive and almond trees.
The nearby Sierra Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park offers opportunities for outdoor activities
such as hiking and bird watching, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

History and Architecture

Sayalonga's history dates back to Moorish times,
and this heritage is visible in its narrow, winding streets and typical whitewashed houses.
One of the remarkable sights in the village is the ancient church of Santa Catalina,
built in the Mudejar style, representing a mix of Christian and Moorish architectural elements.

Sayalonga is also known for its unique circular cemetery, one of the few of its kind in Spain.
This cemetery is a curiosity and a symbol of the region's cultural diversity.

Local Events and Traditions

The village has a rich culture and organizes various local festivals and events.
The most notable is:
- Día del Níspero (Day of the Japanese Medlar):
a festival that takes place in May in honor of the harvest of the local fruit, the níspero.
This festival attracts visitors from far and wide with tastings, local products and traditional music and dance.

Gastronomy

Sayalonga's cuisine reflects traditional Andalusian flavors,
with dishes such as:
- ajo blanco:
a cold almond garlic soup.
- goat cheese.
- stews:
with locally produced olive oil and vegetables.

The area is also known for its wine production, especially the sweet muscatel wines,
which go well with local sweets.