History & Culture

Set on an isthmus on the northern coast of Africa overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, Ceuta is a city surrounded by the sea. An important port and commercial center, sometimes called the "Great Bazaar" because of its large number of stores, the city extends west from the Hacho Mountain, which juts out into the Mediterranean Sea and is said to be one of the legendary Towers of Hercules. From its heights, crowned by a fortress, exceptional views of the city, the Strait of Gibraltar and western Andalucía unfold, and at the outskirts of the city the Isabel II overlook provides memorable views.

Ceuta was a Carthaginian colony, later fortified by the Caliph of Córdoba Abd al-Rahman III. It was conquered by Portugal in the early fifteenth century and passed to Spain when Spanish King Philip II was also crowned king of Portugal. The Foso de San Felipe, a navigable canal that cuts across the isthmus, and the royal walls were built by the Portuguese and later expanded under Spanish rule.

 

Gastronomy

Because of Ceuta's proximity to southern Spain, the city has a very Andalusian appearance, and its fishing fleet is sizable. As one would expect, wonderfully fresh seafood is the highlight of the city's gastronomy, simply fried or grilled or in light sauces, all prepared in the style of Andalucía.

Attractions

Sights in Ceuta include the remains of the fourteenth century Arab walls and fortress, and in the outskirts of the city the Arab aqueduct Arcos Quebrados still stands. Ceuta's cathedral is built on the site of a sixth century Christian temple and although neoclassic in appearance, its original construction is fifteenth century. It features a lovely Renaissance portal of black marble and a baroque altar. In the elegant Municipal Palace the Throne Room displays the standard of the city and many archeological remains.

Fine beaches, a government parador in a lush garden setting adjoining the city walls, and a casino within the beautiful Parque Marítimo del Mediterráneo that was created by visionary Canary Island artist César Manrique, are other enticing reasons to visit the city.

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