The town of Vélez-Málaga is considered to be the capital of the Axarquia. The town is 4 kilometres inland, situated in the great valley of the River Vélez. Its historic origins go back to the Phoenicians and the Carthaginians and a great many remains from these civilizations have been discovered here. During the Moorish occupation the town was an important strategic, cultural and commercial centre. The castle stands on the highest and oldest part of the town. Other important buildings include the Churches of San Juan and Santa Maria, the Convents of Santa Clara and Las Carmelitas and the Palace of the Marquises of Beniel which now houses the Town Hall. Vélez-Malaga has numerous shops, indoor and outdoor markets, a new retail and leisure centre at El Ingenio and a costal resort at Torré del Mar. The harbour and marina for Vélez-Malaga is to be found at La Caleta de Vélez.