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Fosso del Hornabeque Monumental Complex

Foso del Hornabeque

The hornabeque was a defensive feature designed to strengthen the fortifications of Melilla by creating a more complex and secure layout. It played a key role in enhancing the city's military defenses, which were essential in protecting the city from external threats during the period. The construction of the moat and the bridge further solidified Melilla’s position as a fortified stronghold.

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Address: Plaza de las Cuatro Culturas
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Website: melillamonumental.es (opens in a new tab)

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Melilla, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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Monumental Complex Plaza de Armas
The Puerta de Santiago is accessed via a bridge over the Foso del Hornabeque (Hornabeque Moat). This area, historically known as "Villa Vieja", was where the first inhabitants of Melilla settled following the city's occupation in 1497. In ancient times, the location may have been the foral and commercial area during the 2nd century BC to 1st century AD. Archaeological remains from Punic and Roman periods have been discovered in the area. During the Medieval period, the site likely served as a local market, which is why it was later known as "Plaza de la Alaphia" (translated to Arabic as "Plaza de Paz," or "Square of Peace"). This period, spanning from the 10th to the 14th century, yielded numerous grain silos. The ceramic materials found in these silos illustrate the various historical periods of the area, including Umayyad, Almoravid, Almohad, and Nasrid eras. These findings highlight the strategic and commercial importance of the area throughout history.
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Monumental Complex of the Puerta de Santiago, Plaza de la Avanzadilla, the Chapel of Santiago, the only Gothic work in Africa, the Tunnel of Santa Ana and the Cisterns of the Peñuelas
Puerta de Santiago
The Puerta de Santiago is a ravelin (a defensive outwork) that was built in 1549 by the engineer Miguel de Perea, featuring its towers and a bridge over the moat, which initially had an S-shape. In 1680, the engineer Toscano Brito made the bridge drawbridge (levadizo), and in 1699, the layout of the bridge was reformed into a straight line, following the instructions of the engineer Octavio Meni.
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African Legion Race
Carrera Africana de la Legión
It is a challenging annual sports event held in Melilla, featuring several categories: 50 km foot race, 25 km march, 75 km mountain biking (BTT), and 75 km E-bike races, plus a Mini African Race for children. Organised by the Spanish Legion, it attracts athletes from around the world and is known for its physical demands and the festive atmosphere surrounding it. The event honours the tradition and effort of participants, becoming one of Melilla's most important competitions.
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Plaza de las Culturas
Plaza de las Culturas is one of the most emblematic places in Melilla. Located in the Melilla La Vieja area, it serves as a tribute to the cultural diversity of the city. The plaza celebrates the rich blend of cultures that have shaped Melilla over centuries, reflecting the city's unique history as a crossroads of different civilizations. It is an important space for both locals and visitors, offering a place for reflection and appreciation of the multicultural heritage that defines the city. The square's design and symbolic features make it a central point in Melilla, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of various cultural influences.
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