Spain is a land rich in history, where many cities have witnessed the rise and fall of ancient civilizations. But have you ever wondered which is the oldest city in Spain? At MaestroMío, we take you on a journey through time to discover the origins of this millennia-old city, how it was founded, and why it continues to be a cultural and historical landmark to this day. When it comes to the oldest city in Spain, the title belongs to Cádiz, founded around 1100 B.C. by the Phoenicians under the name Gadir.
Origin of Cádiz: The Phoenician City of Gadir
Cádiz was founded by the Phoenicians, a seafaring and trading people from what is now Lebanon, who established one of their first settlements on the Iberian Peninsula. Its original name, Gadir, means “walled enclosure” in Phoenician, reflecting the city’s strategic importance.
The Phoenicians used Cádiz as a key trading port for their Mediterranean routes. The city grew and became an important center for metal trade, especially silver from the mines in Huelva and Tartessos.
Influence of Carthaginians, Romans, and Visigoths
After the fall of the Phoenicians, Cádiz came under Carthaginian control and was used as a naval base during the Punic Wars against Rome.
In 206 BCE, the Romans conquered Cádiz and renamed it Gades. Under Roman rule, the city flourished and became one of the wealthiest in Hispania. Amphitheaters, temples, and aqueducts were built, and the city played a significant role in the cultural and political life of the Roman Empire.
With the fall of Rome, Cádiz was ruled by the Visigoths, and later, in 711 CE, it was conquered by the Muslims, becoming part of Al-Andalus until the Christian Reconquest in 1262.
Cádiz in the Modern Era: Gateway to the Americas
In the 15th century, after the discovery of the Americas, Cádiz became a key port for trade with the New World. During the 17th and 18th centuries, it was one of the most important commercial centers in Spain and Europe, receiving goods and wealth from the Americas.
In the 19th century, Cádiz played a crucial role in Spanish history as the city where the Constitution of 1812, known as La Pepa, was enacted—one of the first liberal constitutions in Europe.
Are There Other Cities That Compete for the Title of Oldest?
Although Cádiz has the earliest documented founding date, there are other historical settlements in Spain with very ancient origins:
- Huelva: Archaeological remains suggest a Tartessian settlement over 5,000 years old, although it is not considered a city in the same sense as Cádiz.
- Tarragona (Tarraco): Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BCE, it was the first Roman colony in Hispania.
- Cartagena (Carthago Nova): Founded by the Carthaginians in 227 BCE, it also has a significant maritime and commercial history.
