Mijas history finds a new audience through Alan Boardman’s Facebook page

Mijas history is finding a new audience thanks to local resident Alan Boardman, whose Facebook page, Memories of Mijas, is quickly becoming a favourite for people fascinated by Mijas and has topped 2,000 regular readers.

Alan started the page in English, hoping to give British residents a better understanding of the village. Each day, he posts a photo of Mijas from the past or a ‘Then and Now’ comparison, often adding background information about what has changed. Interest has grown so quickly that the page is expected to reach 2,000 followers within days, with English and Spanish speakers taking part.

From expat resource to Spanish history lesson

Spanish participation has been one of the biggest surprises for Alan. What began as an English-language project for British residents has developed into a bilingual collection of local memories, with posts now published in both languages.

Alan is effectively teaching Mijas history to Spanish speakers too, sharing stories and images that may bring back memories for older residents while introducing younger generations to the town.

Anyone with an old Mijas photograph can contribute. Alan asks people to send images by WhatsApp, with a brief description of what and where they show and, if possible, when they were taken.

A growing record of Mijas

Alan’s interest in Mijas history is well established. He previously spent around a year researching the village for his charity walking tours, speaking to older residents who shared information rarely found in history books.

His tours have raised more than €30,000 for Costa del Sol charities, while his Facebook project is creating a different kind of legacy.

Old photographs reveal how streets, businesses, landscapes and daily life changed as Mijas developed into a major Costa del Sol destination.

Memories of Mijas offers a chance to look back, compare past and present and perhaps recognise a familiar face, building or street. The question is, Alan, when will you publish your first history book?

Memories Of Mijas (Recuerdos de Mijas) can be found only on Facebook.