Ceuta and Melilla


Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish enclaves in north Africa, in the former Spanish protectorate Morocco. They are located at the northernmost tip of Maghreb, on the Mediterranean coast near the Strait of Gibraltar. While Ceuta and Melilla are located on mainland Morocco, there are also some uninhabited islands such as Isla Perejil, which are claimed by Spain. The government of Morocco has called for the integration of all those enclaves into Morocco.

Being European soil in Africa, this places are subject to a continually rising stream of displaced people who try to reach Europe. The only cave known in this area is located on nearby Isla del Perejil (Parsley Island). It is big enough for 200 people and is used by illegal immigrants, trafficking of humans, and for smuggling.