Day Of Melilla

In the Spanish autonomous city of Melilla, September 17 is an important day. It’s a holiday that commemorates the capture of the city by the Duke of Medina Sidonia and is known as the Day of Melilla. This occurred on September 17, 1497. It’s a day for citizens to attend parties, rallies, and other events that can be found from one end of the city to the other.

Because it’s a public holiday, many shops, schools, and government offices are closed for the day, with only a few exceptions. Many bakeries and grocery stores may remain open on this day, as may other businesses that cater to the needs of party-goers.

The History of Day of Melilla

Located on the northern coast of Africa, Melilla is a Spanish enclave that has a rich and storied history. This is due to its importance as a port through the centuries, and many different cultures have maintained a presence in the city over the years. This city has been held by the Phoenicians, Romans, and Byzantine Empires, and has also been inhabited by numerous Germanic tribes.

Melilla was part of the Kingdom of Fez during the 15th century. This was after Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon decided to send Juan Alfonso Perez de Guzman to take the city in their name. The Duke conquered the city with very little resistance on September 17, 1497.

Observing Day of Melilla

This holiday is celebrated all across Melilla with parties, festivals, and other events. People enjoy good wine and tasty dishes such as Harira, a Moroccan stew, and meat kebabs. It’s a public holiday, so it’s a day when many businesses, government offices, and schools are closed. And it’s a holiday on which public transportation might operate on a reduced holiday schedule.

Where is it celebrated?
Spain (Local holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
September 17 Tuesday
Next year (2025)
September 17 Wednesday
Last year (2023)
September 17 Sunday