Old Town Walking Tour

OVERVIEW

Explore the walled Old Town of Melilla, an area wedged between the port and a newer quarter filled with Modernist architecture. As you walk along the narrow streets of Old Town, which is known locally as El Pueblo, you will notice its easy-to-negotiate grid layout. It was designed centuries ago to enable the city’s defenders to quickly respond to invaders by racing down straight, rather than winding streets. At the time, four fortresses linked by drawbridges guarded Old Town. Some of the most well-preserved highlights include the 16th-century Chapel of Santiago, a rare example of Gothic architecture on the African continent, and the 17th-century church La Purísima Concepción. The imposing Torre de la Vela Tower that was part of Old Town’s original fortifications now houses the Archaeology and History Museum. As you meander about, you may notice Melilla’s ethnically diverse population. Christians, Muslims, Jews and Hindus all live harmoniously in Melilla.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain insight into the history of Melilla by walking through its heavily fortified Old Town.
• See well-preserved architectural treasures behind the thick defensive walls.
• Recognize the cultural diversity of Melilla and how the different ethnicities live in harmony.

HELPFUL HINTS

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