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First modification: 08/04/2026 - 21:16
The migratory crisis in Ceuta once again put the focus on two unique territories: Ceuta and Melilla, the only Spanish cities located on the African continent. These enclaves, the external borders of the European Union, have been strategic points in the relationship between Spain and Morocco for decades, as well as an access route for thousands of people seeking to reach Europe. In this Africa 7 Days broadcast, we analyze with experts the history, status and geopolitical importance of these two autonomous cities.
They are two small cities, but with enormous strategic and geopolitical weight: Ceuta and Melilla, the only territories of the European Union located in Africa and that share a land border with the African continent.
The history of these enclaves goes back centuries. Melilla was incorporated by the Crown of Castile in 1497. Ceuta, on the other hand, was under Portuguese rule until it passed to the Hispanic monarchy in 1580, during the Iberian Union. After the restoration of independence from Portugal in 1640, the city remained under Spanish sovereignty.
When Morocco gained independence from France and Spain in 1956, after decades of protectorate established in 1912, Ceuta and Melilla maintained their status within Spanish territory.
Since then, Rabat has claimed both cities, considering them to be part of its historical and natural borders. In 1975, Morocco took the issue to the United Nations, requesting that they be considered territories pending decolonization, a request that was ultimately unsuccessful.
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