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Modern states /
Spanish North Africa
Spanish territories on Moroccan mainland and off the northern Moroccan coast, with nearly 128,700 inhabitants (May 1, 1996), and covering an area of about 30 km². There is a decrease in the Spanish part of the population, while there is a growth in the Moroccan presence. At present there are about 35,000 Moroccans living in Spanish North Africa, while a few thousands have day jobs here but live in Morocco.
The two main areas are the cities Ceuta and Melilla, which hosts all but about 312 (figures of 1982) of the total number of inhabitants.
Other areas included in Spanish North Africa are Peñon de Vélez de la Gomera 117 km southeast of Ceuta, which is an island except from being connected to mainland Morocco by 85 metre long strip of sand. There is a tiny military garrison on the island, with about 60 men. This island was first occupied by the Spanish in 1508, but then lost again. Since 1564 it has been under continous Spanish control.
Peñon de Alhucaimas is 300 metre off the coast of the Moroccan town of Al Hoceima, and hosts a military garrison with about 60 men. This island has been under Spanish control since 1673.
The Chafarinas Islands (which are made up of three islands: Isla del Congreso, Isla de Isabel 2 and Isla del Rey) lie 48 km east of Melilla, and 3,5 km offshore from the Moroccan port of Ra'su l-Ma'. There is a military garrison on Isla del Congreso with about 190 men. These islands have been under Spanish control since 1847.
Spain also has a claim over the uninhabited island of Perejil, northwest of Ceuta, but this is strongly disputed by Morocco.
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By: Tore Kjeilen
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