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To describe the essence of Cadiz is no easy task. It’s an ancient city. In fact, Gadir as it was originally called, was founded in 1100 BC. That makes it the oldest city of the western world.
The Phoenicians sailed onto these shores in their search for new commodities and found tin, silver and gold. The Romans came and then the Muslim Moors from Northern Africa, until finally the reconquest brought the Spanish empire.
Christopher Columbus started two of his four expeditions in Cadiz. And so began a new chapter in an already old city. Just as with its founding, gold and silver would once again make the city great. But this time, it wasn’t leaving – it was arriving.
With all of these new riches coming from the New World, Cadiz became a target for pirates. It was a constant fight and the city’s walls were continuously built for more than 300 years.
Cadiz was so well fortified that not even Napoleon and his troops could capture it. During the war it became Spain’s military high command and parliament. It’s also where the country’s first constitution was signed in 1812.
Today, Cadiz has mellowed. It’s a place where you can relax on the beach or stroll through the historic old town. The weather is blissful. The food is good. The locals are famously friendly and funny. While Cadiz’s essence may be hard to define, one thing is for sure – it’s good to be in Cadiz.
