Walking Melilla & Canventico Caves

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the most historical areas of Melilla and visit the labyrinth of caves in Old Town that have been used for defensive purposes since Phoenician times. As you walk the cobblestone streets, the guide will describe the city’s turbulent past and point out buildings of the greatest historical value. Despite being on Africa’s north shore, Melilla has been a Spanish territory for more than 500 years. The occupation hasn’t always been peaceful. Over the centuries, soldiers have used the vast series of Conventico Caves beneath the city to store munitions, as hiding places and to protect them from attack, primarily from the Moors. Although the caves were naturally formed, they were expanded by hand to three levels and tunnels were added for greater mobility. The furnishings in the caves will help you imagine what life was like underground when Melilla was under siege.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stroll the cobblestone streets of Old Town while the guide describes Melilla’s history..
• Walk through the maze of caves beneath the city that were used for defensive purposes.
• See how the three-level caves have been expanded over the years with tunnels.

HELPFUL HINTS

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