Guide of Algeciras

Algeciras, a Spanish city in the Andalusia region, lies to the east of Spain, precisely on the Strait of Gibraltar.

History

The derivation of its name is to be found in the Arabic language: Al - Jazira Al - Khadra, which means green island, name given by the first Arab populations arrived in this land around the year 700. Some archaeological finds date his birth around the 33 ac by the Romans, who transported a part of the inhabitants of a North African town here. This city has always been of great strategic importance because of its geographical position as a bridge with Africa, so much that from the second century, it began to be invaded by different populations, including Mauritanians, Franks, Byzantines and Visigoths. Later it was in the hands of the Arabs, until 1344, when they were taken by the Catholic king Alfonso XI.

Places to visit

In Villa Vieja you can explore the remains of the great mosque; the Parque Arqueologico de las Murallas Meriníes, where you can still see the Roman walls and fort, the remains of the 9th century Andalusian walls and evidence of the Almohades, who disembarked from here in the 12th century.

The The Chapel of Our Lady of Europe was transferred to Algeciras from Gibraltar and became damaged during an earthquake in 1755 when it was rebuilt in a Baroque style. It is now located in the main square of the city: Plaza Alta. Plaza Alta is the main focal point in the historic district, where events and many festivals are held throughout the year. The city has many parks and public gardens, where you can stop and enjoy nature in total peace.