MIMMA — Interactive Music Museum

The collection is extraordinary in its range. European classical instruments — violins, cellos, harpsichords, early pianos — sit alongside African percussion, Asian string and wind instruments, pre-Columbian flutes and drums, electronic synthesisers from the 1960s onwards, and everything in between. The collection spans five continents and five centuries. Spanish instruments and the history of music in Andalusia are given particular emphasis: there is a strong collection of flamenco guitars, including instruments made by some of the most celebrated luthiers in Spain.

The building adds considerably to the overall experience. The Palacio del Conde de las Navas dates from the 16th century and has a magnificent arcaded Renaissance courtyard at its heart, where temporary exhibitions and occasional live concerts take place. The contrast between the ancient stone architecture and the global collection of instruments inside is quietly wonderful.

MIMMA is one of the best-value museum experiences in Malaga — the entry price is low relative to most other museums in the city — and it is particularly well suited for families with children, who tend to love the hands-on approach and the sheer variety of sounds they can produce.

Practical tips: allow at least ninety minutes to do the collection justice. Aim for a weekend morning if you want to catch a live demonstration. The museum is in the centro historico and easily combined with the Picasso Museum Malaga and the Alcazaba into a full day of cultural sightseeing.