Tourist spot to be more accessible

THE 16^th century Nuestra Señora de Gracia monastery in Velez-Malaga could be saved from oblivion. One of Velez’s most notable heritage buildings, popularly known as Las Claras convent, may be bought by the town hall to be turned into a cultural and exhibition centre.

The monastery has been closed since 2009, when company Conclave Nostrum bought the place to Las Claras nuns, planning to open a hotel-resort.  

As the plans did not come off, the town hall is measuring the costs of buying the place. “With the financial crisis, the hotel project is very hard to carry on. If we use it as a cultural hub, it would enhance the tourist appeal of Velez’s town centre,” Culture Councillor Antonio Fortes said.