History Of Melilla Military

OVERVIEW

Gain an understanding of Melilla’s turbulent history and how Spain has defended this small territory on the African continent for more than 500 years. You will be reminded of war’s devastating toll on human life at the La Purisma Cemetery, as there is a sea of above-ground burial vaults for the military. Today, many soldiers are stationed at Millan Astray, a barrack named for the founder and first commander of the Spanish Foreign Legion. Of all the forts in Melilla, Rostro Gordo is the largest and most advanced. As you will discover, it perches just north of the city near the border of Morocco. Abd-el-Krim was imprisoned there before becoming the highly successful leader of the Berber forces during the 1920s Rif War against Spanish rule. You will learn details about other resistance movements when browsing the Museum of Military History, which is housed in a former munitions warehouse in Melilla’s 16th-century stone ramparts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover how Spain has defended its interests in Melilla and Morocco over the centuries..
• See the tombs of soldiers from past conflicts and visit soldiers now stationed in Melilla.
• Browse a fort near the border of Morocco and a military museum in the Melilla’s ramparts.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.