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The port of Melilla has a long and fascinating history as part of the ancient world. Originally known as Russadir, it was part of both the Phoenician and Roman empires. After the departure of the Romans, the city fell into obscurity until it was captured by Abd al–Rahman III of Cordoba in 1496. Although it has remained in Spanish hands ever since, Abd al-Krim’s rebels came close to taking the town during the Rif War in 1921.
Most significantly, it was from Melilla that Franco launched the Spanish Civil War in 1936.
Melilla’s beautifully preserved medieval fortress gives the city a lingering fascination. Right up until the end of the 19th century virtually all of Melilla was contained within defensive walls. It is a prime example of the fortress strongholds built by both the Spanish and the Portuguese along the Moroccan coastline during the 16th & 17th centuries. Much of the fortress has been painstakingly restored in recent years. The main entrance to the fortress, Puerta de la Marina, is fronted by a statue of Franco.
 
Las Cuevas del Conventico are well worth a visit, and there are guided tours on the history of the caves and tunnels that lead to the cliff face and they are meticulously maintained and well lit. The tunnels were first excavated by the Phoenicians. Later occupiers enlarged the caves and tunnels in turn so that they now extend over three levels. It’s a fascinating visit, and the ´One Price Entry´covers the convent and the water cisterns.
Directly opposite the entrance to the caves is the Museao Militar perched high over the Mediterranean. Its two small rooms are stuffed full of Spanish military exhibits including regimental flags, maps, medals as well as a bust of Franco, plus a collection of old and modern weapons.
To visit Melilla, you need to take your passport, as it is a Spanish territory.
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