Ceuta is perhaps one of the most unique destinations visited by the Victoria Cruises Residential Ship – and not just because of its geographical location. This small but incredibly layered city belongs to Spain, yet it lies on the northern coast of Africa, right by the Strait of Gibraltar. Standing at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Ceuta preserves Spanish, Arab, Berber, and Portuguese traditions, creating a truly special atmosphere that fills every street.
A Brief History
Ceuta was known as far back as Phoenician times, later falling into Roman hands, followed by Arab and Portuguese conquerors. From 1580, it became part of Spain, to which it still belongs today as an autonomous city. Thanks to its strategic location, Ceuta has served as a military and trading center for centuries – a role it continues to fulfill today. Here, every stone truly has a story to tell.
Sights in Ceuta
Despite its size, Ceuta is packed with sights. The Murallas Reales, or Royal Walls and moat system, are among the city’s most significant historical landmarks – offering a breathtaking walk among the bastions, with seawater rippling below. Saint Ignatius’ ravelin and the Royal Walls of Ceuta surround the Old Town as part of a monumental complex that includes the navigable Royal Moat, used for defense since Portuguese rule. East of the moat lie the oldest fortifications, including Fort Bandera, Coraza Alta y su Caballero, and Fort Mallorquines, which now houses the city’s tourist office. Once, the Bridge of Christ connected the walls to Fort Mallorquines; it was closed each afternoon with cannon fire, cutting off the city from the outside world.
Around the Royal Walls, you’ll also find Saint Francis Xavier’s checkpoint, Fort Saint Paul, and the ravelin of Saint Ignatius, which today hosts a free museum. The museum is divided into three sections showcasing Ceuta’s history, artworks by local artists, and paintings from the Tetouani school.
The Plaza de África area is the heart of the city: home to the cathedral, town hall, and beautifully maintained public spaces. It’s worth visiting the neighborhoods near the Moroccan border too, where the pulse of African culture is especially vivid.
Excursions Around Ceuta
If you’re up for a little adventure, the nearby Monte Hacho offers a spectacular view of the Strait of Gibraltar – believed by some to be one of the legendary Pillars of Hercules.
The Legend of the Pillars of Hercules and the Strait of Gibraltar
The story of the Strait of Gibraltar and Hercules runs deep in Greek and Roman mythology. According to legend, Hercules, the famous hero, reached the western edge of the known world as part of his labors, to capture the fearsome three-bodied giant Geryon, whose cattle lived near the Iberian Peninsula.
During his journey, Hercules came upon a massive mountain range that blocked his path. With his immense strength, he either broke through or split the mountains, thus creating the Strait of Gibraltar, separating Europe from Africa. The towering cliffs on either side of the strait, known as the Pillars of Hercules, symbolized the western gateway of the ancient world.
The northern pillar is identified with the Rock of Gibraltar in Europe, while the southern pillar is believed to be either Jebel Musa in Morocco or Monte Hacho near Ceuta, representing Africa. This unique location is a meeting point of nature and myth – an extraordinary discovery for passengers of the Victoria Cruises Residential Ship.
From here, the coastline is just an hour’s walk away, where peaceful coves and soft, sandy beaches await.
Whether you’re dreaming of the seaside or craving cultural exploration, Ceuta is an ideal starting point – especially if you have just one day during a port stop.
Did You Know?
The border area is still divided by fences – while visually harsh, they are a vital part of Ceuta’s geographical and political identity. Exploring the border region offers deeper insight into Ceuta and helps visitors understand the area’s complex history and importance.
Ceuta is a small jewel on the African coast where history, religion, and culture blend into a harmonious whole. Stepping ashore from the Victoria Cruises Residential Ship felt like arriving in two worlds at once: Europe and Africa. This stop was not only a geographical boundary but a cultural frontier – and that’s exactly what made it so unforgettable.