Plaza de España

The central square of modern Melilla, surrounded by grand early 20th-century buildings including the Palacio de la Asamblea. It serves as the social and architectural showcase of the city's Modernist heritage.

Things to do

• Admire the Palacio de la Asamblea — Marvel at Melilla's Modernist city hall, designed by Enrique Nieto, a disciple of Gaudí, with its ornate facade and clock tower.
• Visit the Monument to the Fallen — See the tall obelisk war memorial standing at the center of the square, a key gathering point in the city.
• Stroll into Parque Hernández — Wander through the adjoining subtropical garden with ponds, sculptures, and shaded paths just steps from the plaza.
• Cross into Melilla la Vieja — Head across the bridge over the old moat to explore the fortified old town rising just beyond the square.
• Spot the Modernist facades — Look up at the surrounding early 20th-century buildings that showcase Melilla's rich Art Nouveau architectural heritage.
• Take an evening paseo — Join locals for the traditional evening stroll around the square once the buildings are illuminated.

Food to try

• Café con leche on a terrace — Sit at one of the plaza's outdoor cafés for a classic Spanish coffee while people-watching.
• Té moruno — Try sweet Moroccan-style mint tea, a nod to Melilla's cross-cultural identity, served at nearby cafés.
• Ensaladilla melillense — Sample the local take on Russian salad, often served as a tapa in bars around the square.
• Pastela — Seek out this Moroccan-influenced savory-sweet pastry filled with meat, almonds, and cinnamon, found in local bakeries.
• Tapas crawl — Hop between the bars lining the plaza for small plates of seafood, jamón, and local specialties.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit at dusk — The Palacio de la Asamblea and surrounding buildings are beautifully lit at night, making evening the best time to see the square.
• Respect the war memorial — The Monument to the Fallen is a solemn site, so keep noise and behavior respectful when nearby.
• Starting point for walking tours — Many Modernist architecture tours of Melilla begin here, so it's a good spot to pick up a map or guide.
• Cultural blend on display — Notice the mix of Spanish and Amazigh-Moroccan influences in the cafés and shops surrounding the plaza.