The peculiarities of Ceuta (and Melilla)
The Autonomous Cities distill colonial charm Y eclecticism in equal parts. With a complex social situation and a vital Mediterranean day-to-day, They are the perfect setting to star in a different getaway . Remember its most curious characteristics so you don't miss a detail of its particular way of life.
1. THE MIX OF CULTURES
You will notice it as soon as you set foot in their domains. The Arab presence is everywhere, from the darbyya -dialect that you will hear in the street- to the bustle and the constant haggling of their souks and markets. It's the bubbly feeling of being in two worlds at the same time... at least, because although many people don't know it, both cities have lived together for years, in addition to the Arab, Jewish and Hindu community . Do not miss it.
two. THE INSULARITY
inescapable. From the Peninsula you can only get to Ceuta by ferry , a one-hour journey that allows you to enjoy the Strait in all its splendor. Melilla has its own airport and also a ferry , five hours from Granada or Almería. In either case, the feeling of an island halfway between the Mediterranean and Morocco is maintained. Circumstance that fosters a curious, open and hospitable character. In addition, thanks to the collection of its size, they are very easy to walk enjoying the appetite and its pleasant terraces. Don't stop walking around the Camoens street in Ceuta nor for the call Golden Triangle of modernism in Melilla.
The feeling of insularity in the two Autonomous Communities
3. THE ARAB GASTRONOMY
Enjoy the best North African delicatessens in two enclaves with all the Western advantages. Do not miss the couscous, the puff pastry filled with meat and spices, the delicious chicken or lamb tagines and the pistachio desserts.
Follow the route of flavor in the best tables.
In Ceuta make a reservation at El Oasis, you will enjoy spectacular views over the city and exquisite Arabic cuisine. And if you fancy something more avant-garde, direct your steps to El Bugao, where you will find a delicate fusion between tradition and innovation. Remember, by the way, that a typical dish of the city is the spiced chicken hearts.
In Melilla Be sure to visit La Posada de Paco Benítez, especially if you like cozy and traditional places. More than recommendable El Caracol Moderno if you want to enjoy excellent quality Arabic cuisine in a very elegant setting.
Quality and elegant Arabic cuisine
Four. SOUKS AND MARKETS
Let yourself be carried away by the magical atmosphere of the One thousand and One Nights and take advantage of haggle at ease and get products that are difficult to find on the Peninsula for which you will also not have to pay VAT. Tapestries, spices, jewelry, makeup products, leather and handicrafts coming from the three cultures that coexist together with the Spanish in the autonomous cities: the Arab, the Hindu and the Hebrew. Impregnate yourself with its smells, immortalize its thousand colors and let yourself be carried away by the cheerful bustle of merchants and customers.
Do not miss the Flea Market, the Mercado del Real and the Central Market in Melilla . In Ceuta, follow the spicy trail of the Mercado Central de Abastos and don't forget to make a trip to the nearby town of Castillejos , after the border with Morocco if you want to find almost everything at the best prices. Remember that yes that you need a passport to access this labyrinthine souk.
Central Food Market
5. THE BORDERS
One of the characteristics that most defines the autonomous cities is the presence of the border, in both cases with Morocco. An infamous target on occasions when for example immigrants try to cross The fence of Melilla , but without a doubt an excellent excuse to have an appetizing pingui in the neighboring country. Explore the rugged beaches and coves of spectacular Cabo Tres Forcas , close to Melilla, and book yourself an excursion to Tangier or Tetouan from Ceuta. The charm and hospitality of its people will do the rest.
#TangerTetouan, the winning hashtag
6. THE NEIGHBORHOODS
Since the broadcast of the mega famous series Prince will flood the screens, the Ceuta neighborhood of the same name has been placed on the map as part of the essential route if you want to get to know Ceuta. It is convenient to go during the day, to enjoy its cafes and be able to talk with the locals , always ready to talk about their impressions of life with a Moorish tea. They will tell you that the first inhabitants of the city are called mackerels , in honor of the fish that swims best on its shores. In Melilla take a tour of the Jewish quarter , and discover how life can stop in some enclaves, and do not forget to walk through the Royal neighborhood if you want to immerse yourself in the history of the city.
Hacho Fortress in Ceuta
7. THE WALLS AND OTHER MONUMENTS
Both cities have impressive walls and in both you can follow its trail discovering corners of the oldest part of the enclaves worthy of more than one selfie. It is also important that you visit its ports, perfect for taking the pulse of the city and discovering first-hand its intimate relationship with the sea. The Noray Marina in Melilla is a good place to have a lazy and salty snack, and the Park of San Amaro of Ceuta , great to brand new your sneakers.
Later, let yourself be carried away by intuition and lose yourself in its cozy streets. You will keep fondly your memories of the House of the Dragon -of Masonic tints- and the Africa Square in Ceuta , and you will definitely fall surrendered to the charms of the Old City of Melilla.
Port of Melilla
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House of the Dragons in Ceuta