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The tiny enclave of Spanish Morocco lies at the northern tip of Africa just 9 miles from the Iberian Peninsula. Its strategic location has made it coveted by civilizations throughout history. Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and Portuguese have occupied the territory until the Treaty of Lisbon assigned it to Spain in 1688.
In mythology, Hercules is said to have stood with one foot here and one on Gibraltar when he separated the continents of Europe and Africa. A huge statue of Hercules holding two pillars stands near the waterfront. On clear days it is possible to see the Rock of Gibraltar in the distance.
The residents of this autonomous Spanish province represent four major religions. The largest groups are Catholics and Muslims, with smaller groups of Hindus and Hebrews. About half of the 170,000 citizens live in the city of Ceuta. They live in harmony although recent incidents have occurred when refugees from Morocco try to climb the fortified fences to get into the European Union.
The fortifications of the city are amazing, built over centuries to keep out invaders. There are three separate sets of castle walls protected by a moat that is fed with sea water. It was fascinating to see motorboats navigating the water between the ramparts. Climbing to the top of the defenses is challenging but the view from the top is spectacular.
A lovely recent addition to the city is the Maritime Park. Designed by architect Cesar Manrique, it consists of three large sea-water lakes, a waterfall and a swimming moat. The area is surrounded by a botanical garden featuring native plants as well as those gathered from around the world. As the climate is sunny and warm, the park is a favorite spot for locals and tourists.
Spanish Morocco is a fascinating area to visit, quite different from the rest of Spain historically, but charming and beautiful.
The writer lives in Mesa.
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