Here is a Spanish geographical fact that surprises many people: it is the only country in Europe that shares a land border with an African nation.
Not just a sea crossing, an actual border on land. And the African country? Morocco.
How does that work?
It is all because of a small Spanish city on the north coast of Africa called Ceuta. This enclave, sitting just across the Strait of Gibraltar, is officially part of Spain, and by extension, part of the European Union, even though it’s located on African soil.
Ceuta has been of strategic importance for thousands of years. Its location makes it a key point for controlling access between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich and complex history, having been ruled by various civilisations including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs.
In 1415, the Portuguese took control of Ceuta. Later, when Portugal and Spain were briefly united under one crown, the city ended up under Spanish rule. After the two nations separated again, Spain kept hold of Ceuta, and in 1668, Portugal officially recognised it as Spanish territory.
Today, Ceuta remains a fascinating blend of cultures, reflecting both its European and North African influences. It has its own government, beautiful coastline, and a tightly controlled border with Morocco.
