The upcoming Museum of the Sea in Estepona will feature the renowned Miguel López Mateo Collection, known for its extensive assortment of navigation instruments and traditional fishing equipment. Situated in the bullring, this new museum space aims to celebrate the historical connection between humanity and the ocean. Miguel López Mateo’s collection, accumulated over a lifetime, highlights the trades, techniques, and tools integral to the seafaring culture of the Mediterranean. The museum’s educational and informative approach will not only demonstrate how sailing was conducted, but also delve into the reasons behind it, weaving tales of ingenuity, survival, exploration, and tradition. Visitors can expect a wide array of meticulously restored items in the collection, ranging from astronomical navigation instruments to 19th-century diving gear, offering insights into life aboard ships. Notable exhibits include historic naval artifacts like a binnacle from 1876, a telegraph from the late 19th century, an 18th-century graphometer, and a Spanish nacelle runner pivotal in maritime speed measurement. The museum also houses colonial-era sextants, astrolabes, and diving suits, alongside interactive educational sections focusing on traditional navigation and artisanal fishing. Estepona’s Councilman, Daniel Garcia, views the Museum of the Sea as a significant cultural addition, recognizing the maritime history that shapes the city’s identity. The legacy of Miguel López Mateo, a dedicated collector with a deep connection to the sea, now stands as a testament to the region’s maritime heritage, offering a platform to preserve and pass on this rich legacy to future generations. Embracing an inclusive and multidisciplinary approach, the museum will host diverse activities catering to school groups, researchers, tourists, and families, including workshops, exhibitions, and guided tours celebrating Andalusia’s maritime past.
Estepona’s Museum of the Sea to Showcase Impressive Collection on Fishing and Navigation







