La Biznaga: fragrance, tradition and the soul of Málaga

It is a living tradition. It is associated with the most authentic Malaga, with warm summers, nights in the squares, the Feria, and popular culture. The biznaga is an emblem of Malaga's identity, a perfect little white sphere.

If you stroll through the streets of Malaga on a summer afternoon, you are likely to be hit by the unmistakable aroma of fresh jasmine. You may even see a biznaguero, who walks the streets dressed in typical costume (white shirt and sash), part of the local collective imagination. One of the most beloved statues in the city is "El Biznaguero", located in the Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso, a sculpture in honour of this iconic figure.

What is a biznaga?

The biznaga is a handmade bouquet of jasmine flowers, carefully placed in the shape of a ball on the dried stem of a ‘nerdo’, which is actually the skeleton of a wild plant (usually bitter thistle). It requires skill, patience and a great deal of care to make.

The jasmines are harvested closed, at dusk, and placed one by one on the nerdo. During the night they open slowly, and at dawn the biznaga gives off its characteristic soft perfume, filling the air with the aroma of Andalusia.

Did you know that...?

• The word ‘biznaga’ comes from the Arabic ‘bashnaka’, and before that from the Persian “baznag”, which means ‘gift from God’.

• The biznaga not only perfumes, but also repels insects in a natural way thanks to the jasmine.

• It is considered a symbol of love and respect, which is why they are often given as a gift on special occasions.a symbol that is carried in the heart

A craft that is passed down from generation to generation

The art of making biznagas has been passed down for decades in many families in Malaga. Although nowadays it is less common to make and sell them, there are still those who dedicate themselves to keeping this tradition alive, especially during the summer months and at popular festivals such as the Feria de Agosto (August Fair).

A sensory experience that only Malaga can offer

Few traditions sum up the spirit of Malaga as well as the biznaga: humble, delicate, joyful and full of soul. The next time you walk through Malaga and see a biznaga, remember that you are looking at a small piece of ephemeral art with centuries of history.