Modernist Melilla

OVERVIEW

Walk through Melilla at a leisurely pace that will allow time to thoroughly explore the city’s abundant Modernisme architecture. Next to Barcelona, Melilla has Spain’s greatest concentration of this highly popular 20th-century style that includes an eclectic mix of Art Nouveau influences. Many of the buildings were designed by Enrique Nieto, a student of the revered Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, who created so many of Barcelona’s architectural gems. Melilla’s so-called golden triangle contains the best-preserved Modernisme buildings, especially ones from the 1930s. Floral decorations, stylized geometric forms, and friezes with silhouettes of animals and women are but a few of the features that adorn the exteriors. Nieto eventually became Melilla’s city architect and his last major work was the Art Deco-style city hall. Following this immersion into Modernistic architecture, you will stop for tapas and a beverage at the landmark Four Cultures Square.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an enlightening walk through neighborhoods full of Modernisme buildings.
• Learn how architect Enrique Nieto reshaped the face of Melilla in the early 20th century.
• Behold countless Modernisme features on the façades of the best-preserved buildings..
• Discuss the extraordinary architecture you’ve seen over tapas in a popular square.

HELPFUL HINTS

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