Sugar production in Torre del Mar began in 1796 with José García Navarrete, but it was in 1846 when Ramón de la Sagra built a new factory following the Cuban industrial model with a steam engine. After an economic failure, the Larios family took over the management under the name "Fábrica Nuestra Señora del Carmen", operating until 1991. This complex was key to local socio-economic development and became an emblem of the industrial heritage of the Malaga coast. In 1993, the central building was refurbished and is now used for cultural purposes, preserving historical elements such as a tacha, a replica of a steam engine and two original chimneys.