XRY

Located on Spain’s Atlantic south-west coast, Cádiz is one of Europe’s oldest cities. Founded around 1104 BC by the Phoenicians it has always had a close relationship with the sea serving as a crucial port to the Carthaginians and Romans. Christopher Columbus sailed out of Cádiz on two of his expeditions to the Americas and the city was designated as home for the Spanish treasure fleet. Not only did this attract the attention of Barbary pirates but also of Spain’s enemies, most notably the English, whose naval fleet under Sir Francis Drake (amongst others) attacked the harbour on numerous occasions. In later years the port would play an important role in the Napoleonic Wars, most famously at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Despite not boasting the same reputation as some of the major historical European cities, such as Rome, Paris and Prague, Cádiz has huge cultural and historical importance. It is a place that I can’t recommend highly enough for any discerning traveller who yearns to discover more about the incredible past that was both endured and enjoyed by the Spanish people. Close to Seville, you can always combine a trip to both cities. Read more about Seville here. A Brief History of Cádiz Believed to be the oldest city in Europe, Cádiz was thought to have been founded by the Phoenicians