The history of Chiclana de la Frontera, Spain
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Prehistoric findings suggest that man has existed here from as far back as the Paleolithic era.
Traces of Phoenician, Carthaginian and Roman civilizations are evident in Chiclana, as well as Cadiz – which is the oldest city in Europe.
The Island of Sancti Petri is surrounded by myths and legends. During the Roman era, an ancient temple was built on its headland. It is said to be a shrine to the mighty Hercules.
Chiclana’s economic development is closely linked to Cadiz. The connection dates back to the 16th century. Back then, the bay of Cadiz was a crucial trading point between Spain and America. The discovery of America had a big impact on the area’s economy – the 17th century was Cadiz’s golden era.
You can still see monuments and buildings that date back to the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries in Chiclana and Cadiz today.
Chiclana, along with other towns in the area were built on the frontiers. This is why they have “de la frontera” attached. These towns were the final frontiers dividing the Christian and Moorish civilizations that existed here, back in the 15th century. In the late 15th century, Isabel and Fernando expelled the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula.
In the 60s and 70s the economy took off. This was partly due to tourism; the beaches, location and climate have contributed greatly to its success. At the moment, Chiclana has more hotel beds than any other town in Cadiz province. We have over 52,000 people living here and the area is still growing.
