Three of the four fortified enclosures of Melilla la Vieja jut out into the sea, while the fourth lies on the mainland. A moat or trench separates the enclosures from one another. In Ciudad De Melilla, history is thus visible as part of the coastline. Construction of the fortified enclosure began in the 15th century on the rock of the ancient city of Rusadir. Today, Melilla la Vieja is designated a Conjunto Histórico-Artístico and encompasses an important monumental heritage.
Fortress and modernist façades
Melilla’s modernist architecture emerged at the beginning of the 20th century. It reflects the interplay of different architectural styles and influential figures. The Triángulo de Oro can be explored as an open-air museum of modernist façades, including façades by architects such as Enrique Nieto. The comparison leads from the 15th-century fortifications to the modernist vocabulary of the early 20th century.
Art, history and religious sites
The Colección de Arte Sacro is housed in a renovated building attached to the former Capuchin monastery, next to the Iglesia de la Purísima Concepción and the Cuevas del Conventico. The collection mainly features objects from Melilla dating from the 18th to the 20th century. The Cuevas del Conventico are underground galleries carved into the rock in the 18th century. They served as a refuge and connect the citadel at sea level with the Cala de Trápana. If you wish to visit the galleries, check their current accessibility beforehand.
The Ruta de los Templos leads to places of worship belonging to Melilla’s Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Jewish communities. It therefore offers a religious perspective on Melilla, alongside perspectives on fortifications, architecture and sacred art.
Coast and green spaces
The Ensenada de los Galápagos is a small natural cove protected by rock formations and low cliffs. Playa de Horcas Coloradas is known for its golden sand and reddish rock formations. Its water is usually clean and calm; conditions can change depending on the season. This brings different coastal landscapes into view: the sheltered cove and the interplay of sand, rock and water.
At Parque Forestal Rey Juan Carlos I, there are family-friendly walks around an artificial lake, as well as other recreational areas for children. The park is also suitable for sports and various leisure activities, and features a restored waterfall and several canals. A municipal update dated January 29, 2026, describes these facilities; check their condition before your trip.
Getting there and getting around
On August 23, 2026, Aena listed eight direct destinations from Melilla Airport: Almería, Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas, Gran Canaria, Granada-Jaén F.G.L., Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez, Málaga-Costa del Sol, Palma de Mallorca and Seville. Flight schedules may change; check your connection before travelling.
The modernist centre and Melilla la Vieja can be explored on foot. For longer journeys and outlying neighbourhoods, city buses, taxis and rental cars are available. When planning your trip, check current connections and services.
Discover more destinations: Melilla, Basque Country, Castile-La Mancha, Aragon, Catalonia, Murcia, Madrid, Valencia.
For the overview of destinations: Spain.
