Editing Melilla (section)

== Culture ==
=== Arts ===
==== Architecture ====
The dome of the Chapel of Santiago, built in the mid-16th century by Miguel de Perea with help from Sancho de Escalante, is a rare instance of [[Gothic architecture]] in the African continent.{{Sfn|Bravo Nieto|2002|p=37}}

Parallel to the urban development of Melilla in the early 20th century, the new architectural style of ''[[Modernisme|modernismo]]'' (irradiated from [[Barcelona]] and associated to the bourgeois class) was imported to the city, granting it a ''modernista'' architectural character, primarily through the works of the prolific Catalan architect [[Enrique Nieto (architect)|Enrique Nieto]].{{Sfn|Cantón Fernández|Riaño López|1984|pp=15–19}}

Accordingly, Melilla has the second most important concentration of ''Modernista'' works in Spain after Barcelona, Mainly concentrated in the city's [[New Melilla|ensanche]].{{Sfn|Cantón Fernández|Riaño López|1984|pp=15–19}} Nieto was in charge of designing the main Synagogue, the Central Mosque and various Catholic Churches.<ref>{{cite web |title=Melilla Modernista |url=http://www.melillaturismo.com/modernismo.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501221012/http://www.melillaturismo.com/modernismo.html |archive-date=1 May 2013 |access-date=25 March 2013 |work=Melilla Turismo |quote=Nieto was in charge of designing the main Synagogue, the Central Mosque and various Catholic churches}}</ref>
<gallery mode="packed">
File:Capilla de Santiago3.jpg|Dome of the Chapel of Santiago
File:EDIFICIO DEL ANTIGÜA REDACCIÓN EL TELEGRAMA DEL RIF.jpg|''Modernista'' building, former headquarters of ''El Telegrama del Rif'' newspaper.
File:Sinagoga Orr Zoruah, Ruta de los Templos (6) (5446069722).jpg|Or Zaruah Synagogue
File:Mezquita central melilla.jpg|Melilla's central mosque
</gallery>

==== Sculpture ====
Also notable are sculptural elements, such as those erected to commemorate the heroes of the campaigns in Morocco: Monumento a los Héroes de Taxdirt (1910) and the Monumento a los Héroes y Mártires de las Campañas (1927-1931), those from the Francoist regime, like the Monumento a los Héroes de España (1941) or the [[Statue of Francisco Franco, Melilla|Statue of Francisco Franco]] and other contemporary pieces, Homenaje al Modernismo Melillense, Monumento a Pedro de Estopiñán y Virués, Encuentros, and Homenaje a Fernando Arrabal.<gallery style="margin:0;" mode="packed">
Monumento a los Héroes de Taxdirt.jpg|alt=Monumento a los Héroes de Taxdirt
Plaza de España, Melilla (3).jpg|alt=Monumento a los Héroes y Mártires de las Campañas
Monumento_al_Ej%C3%A9rcito_de_la_Victoria,_Melilla_(2).jpg||alt=Monumento a los Héroes de España
Estatua de Pedro de Estopiñán en Melilla.jpg|alt=Monumento a Pedro de Estopiñán y Virués
Estatua de Franco en Melilla.jpg|alt=Estatua del comandante de la Legión Francisco Franco Bahamonde
Encuentros (Melilla).jpg|alt=Encuentros
Homenaje al Modernismo Melillense (cropped).jpg|alt=Homenaje al Modernismo Melillense
CRONOS (ESCULTURA).jpg|alt=Reloj Solar
Mustafa arruf- fernando arrabal.jpg|alt=Homenaje a Fernando Arrabal
</gallery>

==== Painting ====
The painting of Melilla has been strongly influenced by its multicultural environment, with a variety of artistic styles. Notable among its artists is ''Eduardo Morillas'', renowned for his connection to the city's history and landscape, capturing the light, colours, and modernist architecture of Melilla. His work blends contemporary art with local traditions, contributing to the recognition of Melilla as an artistic hub. Also noteworthy is the work of ''Carlos Baeza'', particularly his series ''La Ciudad de las Cúpulas'', which highlights the modernist architecture. Furthermore, the ''Museum of Contemporary Art'' houses a representative collection of the city's artistic evolution by Victorio Manchón.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Unas 60 obras de arte puro melillense - El Faro de Melilla |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/unas-60-obras-de-arte-puro-melillense/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |language=es}}</ref>

=== Literature ===
The most prominent authors from Melilla include Miguel Fernández González, [[Fernando Arrabal]], Juan Guerrero Zamora, [[Carmen Conde]], among others.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Redacción |date=2025-01-15 |title=El escritor melillense Fernando Arrabal recibe el Premio Zenda de Honor 2023-2024 - MelillaHoy |url=https://melillahoy.es/el-escritor-melillense-fernando-arrabal-recibe-el-premio-zenda-de-honor-2023-2024/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |work=MelillaHoy - El Periódico de Melilla |language=es-ES}}</ref>

Each year, the Melilla City Council awards the ''[[Premio Internacional de Poesía Ciudad de Melilla]]'', which was established in 1979 in honour of Miguel Fernández, the city's most distinguished poet.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Japon |first=Lorena |date=2018-07-11 |title=La 40 edición del premio Internacional de Poesía y la beca Miguel Fernández se fallarán en el Instituto Cervantes de Madrid - MelillaHoy |url=https://melillahoy.es/la-40-edicin-del-premio-internacional-de-poesa-y-la-beca-miguel-fernndez-se-fallarn-en-el-instituto-cervantes-de-madrid/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |work=MelillaHoy - El Periódico de Melilla |language=es-ES}}</ref>

=== Museums ===
In Melilla, there are several museums including the [[Melilla Museum]], located in the Almacenes de las Peñuelas, the Archaeological and Historical Museum and the Sephardic and Berber Museum, the [[Historical Military Museum of Melilla (Spain)|Melilla Military Museum]], at the Baluarte de la Concepción Alta, the Sacred Art Museum with access to the [[Conventico Caves]], the Museo Casa del Reloj, at the Torre de la Vela, the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions of Melilla, at the Association of Melilla Studies, the Gaselec Electricity Museum, the Melilla Automobile Museum.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Del Campo |first=Paula |date=August 26, 2018 |title=Melilla's Museums, Not So Forgotten This Summer |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/museos-melilla-asistencia-verano-2018/ |access-date=November 12, 2018 |newspaper=El Faro de Melilla |language=es-ES}}</ref>

==== History, Archaeology, and Ethnography Museum ====
{{Main|Melilla Museum}}[[File:Museo_de_Melilla.jpg|alt=History, Archaeology, and Ethnography Museum|thumb|History, Archaeology, and Ethnography Museum]]
The History, Archaeology, and Ethnography Museum of Melilla, located in the Almacenes de las Peñuelas, is divided into two main sections: one dedicated to the cultures of the gypsy, Sephardic, and Amazigh peoples, and the other to the history of the city from prehistory to the modern era. Its origins date back to the 20th century, with the collection of archaeological pieces, and it has changed locations several times before settling into its current site in 2011. Among its collections are objects from the Berber, Sephardic, and Gypsy cultures, as well as archaeological findings like Carthaginian and Nasrid coins, and a model of Melilla La Vieja.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inspain.org/es/melilla/melilla/museo-de-arqueologia-e-historia/|title=Museo de Arqueología e Historia |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=InSpain |language=es}}</ref>

==== Military History Museum ====
[[File:Baluarte_de_la_Concepción_Alta,_Melilla.jpg|alt=Military History Museum|thumb|Military Museum]]
The Military Museum of Melilla, inaugurated in 1997, is located in the Baluarte de la Concepción Alta in [[Melilla la Vieja|Melilla La Vieja]]. It originated from an exhibition on military history held during the city's Fifth Centennial, and its collection includes military uniforms, models, dioramas, an [[Enigma (machine)|Enigma machine]], and a [[saddle]] of [[Isabel II of Spain|Queen Isabel II]]. It also features cannons and mortars on its artillery platforms, along with temporary exhibits in its upper gallery.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.melillaturismo.com/museos/museo-historico-militar/|title=Military History Museum – Melilla Tourism|access-date=2025-03-28|date=2017-10-27|archive-date=27 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171027232310/http://www.melillaturismo.com/museos/museo-historico-militar/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==== Sacred Art Museum ==== 
The Sacred Art Museum of Melilla, located in the former Franciscan Convent in the First Walled Enclosure of Melilla La Vieja, was created with the collaboration of the City of Melilla, the [[Diocese of Málaga]], the Episcopal Vicariate of Melilla, the city's brotherhoods and fraternities, and the Melilla Monumental Foundation. The museum also provides access to the [[Conventico Caves]]. Among its notable pieces is the Custodia del Sol.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.melillamonumental.org/index.php/recinto-amurallado/museos|title=Museums {{!}} Melilla Monumental Foundation|access-date=2025-03-28|date=2018-07-16|archive-date=16 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716054655/http://www.melillamonumental.org/index.php/recinto-amurallado/museos|url-status=bot: unknown}}</ref>

==== Clock House Museum ====
[[File:TORRE_DE_LA_VELA_(MELILLA_LA_VIEJA).jpg|alt=Clock House Museum|thumb|Clock House Museum]]
The Clock House Museum of Melilla, located in the Tower of the Vela, in the First Walled Enclosure of [[Melilla la Vieja|Melilla La Vieja]], was established through the donation of part of the collection of the Almerian artist Andrés García Ibáñez to the City of Melilla. It also showcases part of his own art collection.

The museum has six rooms covering various periods, starting from the 18th century, and presents styles such as 19th-century Realism, New Figuration, and Spanish Photographic Documentarism. It also features sculptures by artists like Juan López, Emilio Manescau Baccarelli, Félix Alonso, and [[Mustafa Arruf]], as well as paintings by Vicente Maeso Cayuela, Victorio Manchón, Carlos Monserrate, Eduardo Morillas, and Francisco Hernández.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/el-24-de-septiembre-se-inaugura-la-pinacoteca-de-la-casa-del-reloj/|title=On September 24, the Pinacotheca of the Clock House Opens - El Faro de Melilla|access-date=2025-03-28|language=es}}</ref>

==== Egyptian Museum of Melilla ====
[[File:Fundación_Gaselec,_Melilla,_Sueños_y_Luz_(1)_(7119624337).jpg|alt=Egyptian Museum of Melilla|thumb|Egyptian Museum]]
The Egyptian Museum of Melilla is a museum dedicated to Egyptian art located in the Spanish city of Melilla. Opened in 2021, it is one of only two Egyptian art museums in Spain, alongside the one in Barcelona. The museum is spread over three floors, where various collections related to Ancient Egyptian civilization are displayed, including pieces of great historical and cultural value. This space offers a detailed view of Egyptian history, culture, and art, making it an important cultural reference in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fundaciongaselec.es/home-fundacion-gaselec/home-mem/|title=Home MEM|access-date=2025-03-31|website=Fundacion Gaselec|language=es}}</ref>

==== Gaselec Electricity Museum ==== 
[[File:Gaselec (5257201574).jpg|Gaselec Electricity Museum|left|alt=Gaselec Electricity Museum|thumb]] The Gaselec Electricity and Industry Museum was founded in 1997 by Gustavo Cabanillas, president of the Hispano-Moroccan Gas and Electricity Company, renamed in 2003 as Melillense de Gas y Electricidad (GASELEC). In 2004, the museum was integrated into the Gaselec Foundation.

The museum consists of several sections: the Technical Room and Warehouse, the Office, which displays early 20th-century furniture, and the Industry Museum, which shows the company's forging process.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elretohistorico.com/museo-melilla/|title=Electricity and Industry Museum of the Gaselec Foundation in Melilla|access-date=2025-03-28|last=Miguel Ángel|first=Ferreiro|date=2015-05-26|website=El Reto Histórico|language=es}}</ref>

==== Automobile Museum ====
[[File:Chevrolet_(Museo_Historia_del_Automóvil_en_Melilla).jpg|alt=Automobile Museum|thumb|Automobile Museum]]
The Automobile Museum of Melilla is open by appointment only. It was created by collector Miguel Ángel Hernández, who had a great interest in cars since 1970, with the collaboration of historian Juan Díez Sánchez and other contributors such as José Nieto Egea, José Miguel Fernández, and Federico Navajas.

The museum houses an exhibition of 35 cars, 12 motorcycles, and 2 with sidecars, showcasing an important collection of historic vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.latribunadeautomocion.es/?option=com_content&view=article&id=2018%3Amelilla-abre-su-museo-del-automovil-un-recorrido-historico-del-ultimo-siglo&catid=29%3Aespana|title=La Tribuna de Automoción: Leading Motor Information|access-date=2025-03-28|date=2025-03-27|website=La Tribuna de Automoción|language=es}}</ref>

==== Fossils and Minerals Museum ====
The Fossils and Minerals Museum is an institution dedicated to the exhibition and study of fossils and minerals, located at the "Ingeniero Ramón Gavilán" Nature Interpretation Center in Melilla. Opened in 2015, it houses a collection of approximately 130 specimens, including marine animal fossils, invertebrates, and vertebrates such as shark teeth and other notable examples.

The museum offers educational activities such as workshops and guided tours, and has been awarded the UNE-EN [[ISO 9001:2015]] quality certification. It is currently undergoing expansion, with projects including the creation of a Petrology Hall and a Natural Science Museum of Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://granjamelilla.es/mapa/museo/|title=Museo de fósiles|access-date=2025-04-13|last=admin|date=2016-04-13|language=es}}</ref>

=== Exhibition halls ===
The exhibition halls at the Hospital del Rey of the Gaselec Foundation, the Vicente Manchón at the Federico García Lorca Cultural Center, and the Royal Maritime Club of Melilla.
<gallery style="margin:0;" mode="packed">
Hospital del Rey, Melilla 7.jpg|Hospital del Rey
Uned- melilla.jpg|Former Colegio del Buen Consejo
CLUB MARÍTIMO (MELILLA).jpg|Royal Maritime Club of Melilla
</gallery>

=== Archives ===
* Historical Archive of Melilla: Contains documentary holdings including notarial protocols from the War Notary Offices of the Melilla, Vélez de la Gomera, Alhucemas, and Chafarinas Islands, mostly dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaPortal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_fdes_d4_v1.jsp&contenido=2913&tipo=6&nivel=1400|title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla - Archivist Services|access-date=2025-03-29|website=www.melilla.es}}</ref>
* General Archive of Melilla: Created in 2012, its mission is to preserve, safeguard, and provide access to the city's documentary holdings for future use.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://censoarchivos.mcu.es/CensoGuia/archivodetail.htm?id=52832|title=Cover of the National Historical Archive|access-date=2025-03-29|website=censoarchivos.mcu.es|language=es}}</ref>
* Military Intermediate Archive of Melilla: Contains over 4000 units of installation, with records spanning from the 18th century to the present day.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es/es/centros/archivo-intermedio-militar-melilla/portada|title=Cover of the Military Intermediate Archive of Melilla {{!}} Cultural Heritage of Defense|access-date=2025-03-29|website=patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es|language=es|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250125164845/https://patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es/es/centros/archivo-intermedio-militar-melilla/portada|archive-date=25 January 2025|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Ecclesiastical Archives of Melilla: Contains documentary holdings from various parishes in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://censoarchivos.mcu.es/CensoGuia/archivodetail.htm?id=39167|title=Cover of the National Historical Archive|access-date=2025-03-29|website=censoarchivos.mcu.es|language=es}}</ref>

=== Libraries ===

* Public Library of Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_floc_d4_v1.jsp&codbusqueda=207&language=es&codResi=1&codMenuPN=601&codMenuSN=9&codMenu=159&layout=contenedor.jsp|title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla - Public Library|access-date=2025-03-29|website=www.melilla.es}}</ref>
* Historical Military Library of Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es/es/centros/biblioteca-militar-melilla/portada|title=Cover of the Military History Library of Melilla {{!}} Cultural Heritage of Defense|access-date=2025-03-29|website=patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es|language=es|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250119133256/https://patrimoniocultural.defensa.gob.es/es/centros/biblioteca-militar-melilla/portada/|archive-date=19 January 2025|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Cultural institutions ===

* Cultural Classes for Seniors in Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_fdes_d4_v1.jsp&codbusqueda=446&language=es&codResi=1&codMenuPN=601&codMenuSN=9&codMenuTN=488&codMenu=510&layout=contenedor.jsp|title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla - Cultural Classes for Seniors|access-date=2025-03-29|website=www.melilla.es}}</ref>
* Islamic Board of Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://maper.mjusticia.gob.es/Maper/DetalleEntidadReligiosa.action?numeroInscripcion=024454|title=Search for Religious Entities - Ministry of Justice|access-date=2025-03-29|website=maper.mjusticia.gob.es}}</ref>
* Sociocultural Association: Mem Guímel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://memguimel.es/|title=Promoting Jewish-Sefardic culture since 2007|access-date=2025-03-29|website=Mem Guímel|language=es}}</ref>

=== Music ===

* Melilla Professional Conservatory of Music.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://cpmusicamelilla.educacion.es/|title=Home - Digital Education System|access-date=2025-03-29|website=cpmusicamelilla.educacion.es}}</ref>
* City of Melilla Music Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Choir Association.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://asbanormelilla.com/banda-orquesta-y-coro-ciudad-de-melilla|title=Band, Orchestra, and Choir "City of Melilla" – AsbanorMelilla|access-date=2025-03-29|language=es}}</ref>
* Music Unit of the Melilla General Command.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://melillahoy.es/la-unidad-de-musica-de-la-comandancia-de-melilla-ofrecera-un-repertorio-de-marchas-de-la-pasion-de-cristo/|title=The Music Unit of the Melilla Command will offer a repertoire of Passion of Christ marches - MelillaHoy|access-date=2025-03-29|last=Redacción|date=2025-03-28|language=es}}</ref>

=== Theatres ===
[[File:Kursaal, 2 día (3) (5547973648).jpg|thumb|[[Theatre Kursaal-Fernando Arrabal|Kursaal Theatre - Fernando Arrabal]]]]
In Melilla, there is the [[Theatre Kursaal-Fernando Arrabal]], under the Ministry of Culture of the Autonomous City of Melilla, and the Exhibition and Congress Palace, under the Melilla Tourism Board, which hosts the main theater, dance, musical performances, and shows in the city. The ''Perelló Theater-Cinema'' is the only commercial cinema in Melilla, operating since 1932. In the summer, concerts are held in [[Melilla la Vieja]], the ''Carvajal Auditorium'', and the fairgrounds, featuring both national and international artists. Throughout the year, there is a lot of activity from local musical groups, mainly in private venues and bars.

=== Cultural events ===
==== Melilla Film Week ====
{{Main|Melilla Film Week}}
The Melilla Film Week is an annual film festival held in the autonomous city of Melilla, Spain. First organized in 2009, it is coordinated by the Department of Culture of the Autonomous City, with the aim of promoting cinema and audiovisual culture in the region.

Each edition takes place in May and features a program including national and international feature films, short films, and children’s cinema. Screenings are mainly held at the [[Theatre Kursaal-Fernando Arrabal]]  and the Perelló Cinema-Theatre.

The festival also hosts parallel events such as panel discussions, presentations, and concerts. One of its main awards is the [[José Sacristán|José Sacristán Prize]] (formerly “Ciudad de Melilla Prize”), which honors prominent figures in [[Spanish cinema]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://melillahoy.es/el-premio-semana-de-cine-de-melilla-pasar-a-denominarse-a-partir-de-ahora-jos-sacristn/|title=El Premio Semana de Cine de Melilla pasará a denominarse, a partir de ahora, José Sacristán - MelillaHoy|access-date=2025-03-09|last=Melendez|first=Angel|date=2017-01-17|language=es}}</ref>

==== Route of the Temples ====
{{Main|Route of the Temples}}
The Route of the Temples is a tourist circuit visiting Melilla’s main places of worship, reflecting the city's religious diversity. It begins at the Church of the Purísima Concepción (1657), a building in late Romanesque and Baroque styles, dedicated to [[Our Lady of the Rosary]]. The route continues to the Or Zaruah Synagogue (1924), a modernist building representing the Jewish community. Next is the Hindu Temple of Melilla, also modernist in style, showcasing the city’s Hindu tradition. The tour ends at the Central Mosque of Melilla (1950), a key site for Muslim worship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spain.info/es/descubrir-espana/melilla-conocer-rutas/|title=Modernist architecture in Melilla and Route of the Temples|access-date=2025-04-13|website=Spain.info|language=es}}</ref>

==== Renaissance Market of Charles V ====
{{Main|Charles V Renaissance Market}}
[[File:Carpa gastronomíca del Mercado Renacentista de Melilla, 2024.jpg|thumb|Charles V Renaissance Market]]

The Renaissance Market of Charles V is an annual cultural event held in Melilla that aims to recreate the atmosphere of the 16th century and promote the city’s historical heritage. Launched in 2016, it takes place in [[Melilla la Vieja]], transforming the old town into a Renaissance-themed market.

The event includes over 60 stalls selling crafts and period-style food, along with live performances, theater acts, fencing displays, music, and interactive activities. The market is divided into themed areas representing different cultures such as Castilian, Amazigh, Sephardic, and Indo-Gypsy.

The market attracts thousands of visitors each year, promoting cultural tourism and boosting the local economy. It is usually held in June, with the next edition scheduled for 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://melillamonumental.es/mercado-renacentista-de-carlos-v/|title=Mercado Renacentista de Carlos V|access-date=2025-04-13|website=Melilla Monumental|language=es}}</ref>

==== Music Under the Moon ====
This is a cultural event held on summer nights, offering open-air concerts in emblematic locations across the city. Featuring a variety of music genres—from classical to flamenco—the event is open to all audiences and includes both local and international performers. It promotes arts and culture and is one of the city’s major summer attractions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/musica-a-la-luna-una-gran-iniciativa/|title='Música a la Luna', una gran iniciativa - El Faro de Melilla|access-date=2025-04-13|date=2024-07-07|language=es}}</ref>

==== Melilla Jazz Days ====
The Melilla Jazz Days is an annual event dedicated to jazz music, featuring concerts by both national and international musicians at various venues across the city. The festival showcases a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional to contemporary, and encourages participation by local artists. In addition to concerts, it includes educational activities such as workshops and masterclasses. This event enhances the cultural and touristic appeal of Melilla, positioning it as a notable destination for music lovers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unedmelilla.es/nuevo/index.php/extension-cultural/noticias/278-xxix-jornadas-sobre-jazz-juan-claudio-cifuentes|title=XXIX Jornadas sobre Jazz Juan Claudio Cifuentes|access-date=2025-04-13|last=Díaz|first=Raul|website=Unedmelilla|language=es-es}}</ref>

==== Singer-Songwriter Contest ====
The Singer-Songwriter Contest of Melilla is an annual event that promotes original music, offering emerging singer-songwriters—both local and from outside—the chance to showcase their original compositions. The contest supports local culture and provides visibility for new talent, with prizes that include recordings and concert opportunities. It has also become a significant cultural meeting point, featuring additional activities that enrich the musical experience.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/el-cantautor-tontxu-actua-este-miercoles-en-la-uned-de-melilla/|title=El cantautor Tontxu actúa este miércoles en la Uned de Melilla - El Faro de Melilla|access-date=2025-04-13|date=2025-04-01|language=es}}</ref>

=== Feasts and festivals ===
* [[Christmas]]: The public holidays are Christmas (December 25), New Year's Eve (December 31), New Year's Day (January 1), and the celebration of the Three Kings (January 6).

* [[Easter]]: with Holy Thursday and Good Friday.<ref>{{Cite web |title=COFRADÍAS MELILLA 2020 by Carlos Rubiales Morales - Issuu |url=https://issuu.com/carlosrubiales/docs/cofrad_as_melilla_2020.indd |access-date=2022-02-10 |website=issuu.com |date=11 March 2020 |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Ramadan]]: [[Eid al-Fitr]]
* [[Eid al-Adha|Eid al Adha]]: July 11<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla Festive Calendar 2022 |url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_fact_d4_v1.jsp&contenido=30529&nivel=1400&tipo=2&codMenu=291&evento=1}}</ref>
* [[Assumption of Mary]]: August 15.
* [[Patron Saint Festivals|Patron Saints' Festival]]: the celebration of [[Our Lady of the Rosary]], September 8.
* Melilla Day, September 17. It commemorates the [[conquest of Melilla]] in 1497 by Pedro de Estopiñán, when Melilla became part of the [[Crown of Castile]].
* [[National Day of Spain]]: October 12
* [[All Saints' Day]]: November 1
* [[Constitution of Spain|Constitution Day]]: December 6
* [[Feast of the Immaculate Conception]]: December 8

==== Melilla Fair ====
{{Main|Melilla Fair}}
[[File:Feria de Melilla 2008.jpg|thumb|[[Melilla Fair]].]]
During the celebration of the ''Melilla Fair'' in September, the streets are transformed into traditional symbols of Spanish culture and history, with sweet wine, tapas, and live flamenco shows. The day events consist of dancing, live music (such as [[flamenco]]) and bullfights at [[Plaza de Toros de Melilla]], while the night fair is moved to the Recinto Ferial, consisting of restaurants, clubs, and an entire fair ground with rides and games.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-07 |title=Penúltimo día de la Feria de Melilla en imágenes |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/penultimo-dia-feria-melilla-imagenes/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |language=es}}</ref>

==== Holy Week in Melilla ====
[[File:Procesión de Semana Santa en Melilla..jpg|thumb|Holy Week Procession: "La Pollinica" on Holy Monday in [[Hernandez Park|Hernández Park]]]]
[[Holy Week in Spain|Holy Week]] in Melilla is one of the city’s main religious festivities, celebrated with deep-rooted tradition and strong popular participation. Its documented origins date back to 1498, with the procession of the Christ of the True Cross (''Cristo de la Vera Cruz''), currently under the care of the ''Cofradía del Nazareno'', the oldest brotherhood in the city.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-03-29 |title=Melilla: el secreto mejor guardado de la Semana Santa Española |url=https://www.abc.es/viajar/melilla-secreto-mejor-guardado-semana-santa-espanola-20250319191754-nt.html |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=Diario ABC |language=es}}</ref>

During Holy Week, five brotherhoods — ''Flagelación'', ''Nazareno'', ''Jesús Cautivo'', ''Soledad'', and ''Humillado'' — organize processions from [[Palm Sunday]] to [[Easter|Easter Sunday]], passing through the streets of both the historic center and the modern parts of the city.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rodríguez |first=Víctor A. Lafuente Sánchez, Francisco Sangorrín Perdices y David Rodríguez |title=Semana Santa en Melilla en Melilla |url=https://www.cofradiasyhermandades.es/semanasantae.php?cc=588400 |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=Cofradias y Hermandades |language=es-ES}}</ref>

One of the most significant events is the [[Lamentation of Christ]] procession, held on [[Good Friday]]. It is considered the official ''station of penance'' and is attended by both civil and military authorities. Another distinctive tradition is the presence of women wearing black [[Mantilla|mantillas]], a symbol of respect and solemn reflection.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-14 |title=Recorridos y horarios para las procesiones del Viernes Santo |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/recorridos-horarios-procesiones-viernes-santo/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |language=es}}</ref>
[[File:Día de Melilla (5) Melilla.jpg|thumb|Melilla Day]]

==== Melilla Day ====
Melilla Day is celebrated on [[September 17th]], commemorating the incorporation of the city into the [[Crown of Castile]] in 1497. During this festivity, commemorative events and official ceremonies are held.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla - ¡FELICITACIÓN DÍA DE MELILLA 2024! |url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_fact_d4_v1.jsp&contenido=37527&nivel=1400&tipo=2&codResi=1&language=es&codMenu=156&codMenuPN=600&codMenuSN=261 |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=www.melilla.es}}</ref>

==== Other celebrations ====
[[File:Virgen_del_Carmen_en_Melilla.jpg|thumb|[[Our Lady of Mount Carmel]] in Melilla]]
The Festivity of [[Our Lady of Mount Carmel]] is celebrated on July 16 and consists of a land procession followed by a maritime procession of images under the invocation of [[Our Lady of Mount Carmel]], patron saint of sailors. One of the images, the "Virgen del Carmen Coronada del Perchel", goes out on the Sunday following her feast day, starting in the morning heading towards the Church of San Agustín, and returning in the afternoon after being embarked at the [[Port of Melilla]] and later processed back to the temple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Monumental |first=Melilla |date=2020-07-16 |title=Conociendo nuestro patrimonio Virgen del Carmen |url=https://melillamonumental.es/conociendo-nuestro-patrimonio-virgen-del-carmen/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=Melilla Monumental |language=es}}</ref>

The last weekend of June marks the celebration of the ''Carlos V Renaissance Market'', a festival held in [[Melilla la Vieja|Melilla La Vieja]], recreating a medieval market for three days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=En junio regresa el Mercado Medieval a Melilla |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/junio-regresa-mercadop-medieval-melilla/ |access-date=2025-03-14 |language=es}}</ref>
[[File:Patrona_de_Melilla_(3).jpg|thumb|[[Our Lady of the Rosary|Patroness of Melilla]]]]
Every September 8 marks the celebration of the day of [[Our Lady of the Rosary]], Patron Saint of Melilla.

Additionally, the observance of [[Ramadan]] is official, including [[Eid al-Fitr]] and [[Eid al-Adha]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla Calendario de Festivos 2022 |url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_fact_d4_v1.jsp&contenido=30529&nivel=1400&tipo=2&codMenu=291&evento=1}}</ref>

Each community celebrates its own holidays, such as the Jewish [[Hanukkah]],<ref>[http://www.elfarodigital.es/ceuta/sociedad/112160-hoy-quedara-inaugurada-la-iluminacion-con-motivo-de-la-fiesta-hebrea-januca.html Today the lighting will be inaugurated on the occasion of the Jewish holiday 'Hanukkah'] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728190845/http://www.elfarodigital.es/ceuta/sociedad/112160-hoy-quedara-inaugurada-la-iluminacion-con-motivo-de-la-fiesta-hebrea-januca.html}}. El Faro Digital, November 3, 2013.</ref> the Hindu [[Diwali]],<ref>[http://www.elfarodigital.es/especiales-diario-impreso/diwali.html Diwali] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130129170640/http://www.elfarodigital.es/especiales-diario-impreso/diwali.html}}. El Faro Digital, December 3, 2012.</ref> or the [[Eid al-Adha|Aid-al Kebir]], also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice or Festival of the Lamb. This is the only non-Christian community celebration officially recognized in the labor calendar since 2010.<ref>[http://www.antena3.com/noticias/espana/ceuta-melilla-celebran-fiesta-musulmana-sacrificio-cordero_2010111700092.html Ceuta and Melilla celebrate the Muslim Feast of the Sacrifice]. [[Antena 3 (Spanish TV channel)|Antena 3]], November 17, 2010.</ref>

=== Sport ===
==== Sports facilities ====
The city has an extensive network of sports centers managed by the Department of Education, Youth, and Sports, many of which are operated by private companies under administrative concession. Many of these centers offer a variety of sports activities such as [[swimming]] and provide access to the rental of indoor pavilions, multi-sport courts, fields, fitness rooms, and sports campuses.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla - Instalaciones Deportivas |url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_lloc_d10_v1.jsp&layout=contenedor.jsp&codbusqueda=268&codResi=1&language=es&codMenu=226&codMenuPN=601&codMenuSN=5&numeroPagina=2 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=www.melilla.es}}</ref>

===== Álvarez Claro Municipal Stadium =====
{{Main|Estadio Municipal Álvarez Claro}}
The [[Estadio Municipal Álvarez Claro|Álvarez Claro Municipal Stadium]] is Melilla’s main sports venue and home to the [[UD Melilla]]. It was inaugurated on September 29, 1945, by then-mayor Rafael Álvarez Claro, after whom the stadium is named. It has a capacity of 10,000 spectators.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-08-15 |title=MelillaEsDeporte.es - La inauguración del Estadio Álvarez Claro |url=http://www.melillaesdeporte.es/noticia/4101/la-inauguracion-del-estadio-alvarez-claro |access-date=2025-04-16 |archive-date=15 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170815024003/http://www.melillaesdeporte.es/noticia/4101/la-inauguracion-del-estadio-alvarez-claro |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Throughout its history, it has hosted major matches, including games against clubs such as [[Atlético Madrid]], [[Athletic Bilbao|Athletic Club]], [[Levante UD]], and [[Real Madrid CF]], as well as international fixtures for the [[Spain national under-21 football team|Spain U21 national team]]. It also hosted the final of the [[2015 Copa de la Reina de Fútbol]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Do you remember the excitement of the 2015 Copa de la Reina? {{!}} www.rfef.es |url=https://rfef.es/es/noticias/recuerdas-la-emocion-de-la-copa-de-la-reina-2015 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=rfef.es |language=es}}</ref>

Since 2021, the stadium has been undergoing transformation into a municipal multi-sport complex, with new facilities such as a [[climbing wall]], [[paddle tennis]] courts, and a [[shooting range]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-04-06 |title=Álvarez Claro Stadium to become a municipal multi-sport complex |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/estadio-alvarez-claro-pasa-convertirse-complejo-polideportivo-municipal/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=es}}</ref>

===== Javier Imbroda Ortiz Pavilion =====
The Javier Imbroda Ortiz Pavilion has a capacity of 2,900 spectators and is the home venue for [[Club Melilla Baloncesto|Melilla Basketball Club]] ([[LEB Oro]]), Melilla Fútbol Sala ([[Liga Nacional de Fútbol Sala|LNFS]]), and Melilla Volleyball Club ([[Superliga de Voleibol Masculina]]).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baloncesto |first=Melilla |title=Melilla Basketball Club – Official Website |url=https://clubmelillabaloncesto.org/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=Club Melilla Baloncesto |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=CD Melistar FS: Club Information {{!}} LNFS |url=https://www.lnfs.es/equipo/cd-melistar-fs/100/info |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=www.lnfs.es |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Melilla Volleyball Club {{!}} Official Site |url=https://clubvoleibolmelilla.com/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=Melilla Volleyball Club |language=es}}</ref>

It was inaugurated on February 17, 1995, as the ''Ciudad de Melilla Sports Pavilion''. In 2007, it was renamed in honor of Melilla-born coach [[Javier Imbroda]], a key figure in Spanish basketball and runner-up in the [[Liga ACB]] with [[CB Málaga]] in the 1993–94 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=acb.com |url=https://www.acb.com/entrenador/trayectoria-logros/id/20300073 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=www.acb.com |language=es}}</ref>

The pavilion has hosted major sporting events, including three editions of the [[Copa Princesa de Asturias]] and three [[Liga ACB]] playoff finals. In 2025, improvements to the climate control system were announced following high temperatures recorded during events such as the 1st Javier Imbroda Memorial, held in August 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-06-07 |title=€87,985 invested to make the Javier Imbroda Pavilion "more human" - El Faro de Melilla |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/invierten-87-985-para-hacer-mas-humano-el-pabellon-javier-imbroda/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The 2022 Princess of Asturias Cup Final breaks its first record |url=https://www.feb.es/2022/3/10/baloncesto/final-copa-princesa-asturias-2022-bate-primer-record/89545.aspx |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=FEB |language=ES}}</ref>

===== General Bañuls Sociocultural Sports Center =====
The General Bañuls Sociocultural Sports Center was founded in 1914 as the Melilla Equestrian Society. It was recognized as the Royal Equestrian Society by [[Alfonso XIII of Spain]] in 1920 and adopted its current name in 2014, in honor of General Francisco Bañuls.<ref>{{Cite web |title=General Bañuls Sociocultural Sports Center, Melilla Club - Melilla |url=https://fabs.es/centro-deportivo-sociocultural-hipica-general-banuls-club-en-melilla-melilla/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=es}}</ref>

The center offers a wide variety of sports and cultural activities, with a focus on its [[List of equestrian sports|equestrian]], [[tennis]], and [[paddle tennis]] schools, along with modern facilities. It has hosted numerous tournaments and social events over the years.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sociocultural sports centers - DIAPER - Liferay DXP |url=https://ejercito.defensa.gob.es/diaper/centros-deportivos-socio-culturales |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250305225717/https://ejercito.defensa.gob.es/diaper/centros-deportivos-socio-culturales |archive-date=5 March 2025 |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=DIAPER |language=es-ES |url-status=live }}</ref>

Among its most notable alumni is tennis player [[Feliciano López]], who trained at the center during his time in Melilla between the ages of 5 and 12, taking his first steps in tennis before beginning his successful professional career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Calderay |first=Antonio |date=2023-07-02 |title=Melilla was key in the development of Feliciano López as a tennis player - MelillaHoy |url=https://melillahoy.es/melilla-fue-clave-en-la-formacion-de-feliciano-lopez-como-tenista/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Serras |first=Manel |date=2002-06-30 |title=Feliciano López, the unknown survivor |url=https://elpais.com/diario/2002/06/30/deportes/1025388023_850215.html |access-date=2025-04-16 |newspaper=El País |language=es |issn=1134-6582}}</ref>

===== Royal Maritime Club of Melilla =====
The Royal Maritime Club of Melilla (RCMM) is a nautical organization founded on March 6, 1944, as the Maritime Club of Melilla. It was officially inaugurated on August 13, 1944, and received the "Royal" designation from [[King Juan Carlos I of Spain]] in 2006. It has more than 6,000 members.<ref>{{Cite web |last=RCMMelilla |title=Royal Maritime Club of Melilla |url=https://www.realclubmaritimomelilla.es/clmar/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=Real Club Marítimo de Melilla |language=es}}</ref>

The RCMM excels in sports, especially sailing, organizing the Melilla Nautical Week since 1997, and has a strong basketball section with 18 teams. It also offers a wide range of facilities and activities, including a nautical activity area, swimming pool, gym, pétanque court, sauna, restaurant, café, and exhibition hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Club Marítimo de Melilla |url=https://www.rcmarsc.es/nacional-e-internacional/club-maritimo-de-melilla |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=rcmarsc.es |language=es}}</ref>

Culturally, the club organizes the Cultural Days, focused on maritime themes, along with other social and educational activities.<ref>{{Cite web |last=RCMMelilla |date=2025-02-21 |title=The XI Cultural Days begin |url=https://www.realclubmaritimomelilla.es/clmar/arrancan-las-xi-jornada-culturales-club-maritimo-melilla-rcmm/ |access-date=2025-04-16 |website=Real Club Marítimo de Melilla |language=es}}</ref>

===== Other facilities =====
Melilla also features several [[association football|football]] and [[seven-a-side football]] fields, a [[motocross]] track, a [[radio-controlled car]] circuit, paddle tennis and pétanque clubs, the El Fuerte sports club, Melilla’s [[golf]] course, Lázaro Fernández and García Pezzi sports pavilions, municipal swimming pools, and Álvarez Claro courts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla. Sports Facilities. |url=https://www.melilla.es/melillaportal/contenedor.jsp?seccion=s_lloc_d10_v1.jsp&layout=contenedor.jsp&codbusqueda=268&codResi=1&language=es&codMenu=226&codMenuPN=601&codMenuSN=7&numeroPagina=2}}</ref>

==== Sporting clubs ====
===== Football =====
{{Main|UD Melilla}}
The city's football club, [[UD Melilla]], plays in the third tier of Spanish football, the [[Segunda División B]]. The club was founded in 1943 and since 1945 have played at the 12,000-seater [[Estadio Municipal Álvarez Claro]]. Until the other club was dissolved in 2012, UD Melilla played the Ceuta-Melilla derby against [[AD Ceuta]]. The clubs travelled to each other via the Spanish mainland to avoid entering Morocco.<ref name="chameleon">{{cite book |last=Hawkey |first=Ian |title=Feet of the chameleon: the story of African football |publisher=Portico |year=2009 |isbn=978-1-906032-71-5 |location=London}}</ref> The second-highest ranked club in the city are [[Casino del Real CF]] of the fourth-tier [[Tercera División]]. The football's governing institution is the [[Melilla Football Federation]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=UD Melilla |url=https://udmelilla.es/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |language=es}}</ref>

===== Basketball =====
{{Main|Club Melilla Baloncesto}}
[[Club Melilla Baloncesto]] is the main basketball team in the city. Founded in 1984, the team competes in [[LEB Oro]], the second tier of Spanish basketball, just below the [[Liga ACB|ACB League]]. Melilla Baloncesto has been a competitive team within this league, having played several promotion phases to the ACB over the years. The team plays its home games at the Pabellón Municipal de Deportes Javier Imbroda, which has a capacity of around 5,000 spectators. This pavilion is the heart of the Melilla fanbase, who passionately support the local team at every game. Although the club has not yet achieved promotion to the ACB, it has been a constant contender in the LEB Oro, regularly participating in the playoffs and demonstrating a high level of play. Additionally, Melilla Baloncesto has been successful in developing young players and providing a platform for talents who have later excelled in other competitions. Similar to football, matchups against other LEB Oro teams, such as [[Club Ourense Baloncesto]] or [[Cáceres Ciudad del Baloncesto]], often generate significant excitement due to the rivalry and the competitive nature of both clubs in the league.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baloncesto |first=Melilla |title=Club Melilla Baloncesto – Web del Club Melilla Baloncesto |url=https://clubmelillabaloncesto.org/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=Club Melilla Baloncesto |language=es}}</ref>

==== Sporting events ====

===== African Race of the Legion =====
The African Race of the Legion (Carrera Africana de la Legión) is an endurance competition held annually in Melilla, organized by the [[Spanish Legion|1st Tercio “Gran Capitán” of the Spanish Legion]]. It includes several categories: a 50 km foot race, a 25 km march, mountain biking (BTT), and electric bike race (75 km), along with a children's version known as the MiniAfricana.

The route crosses natural landscapes, beaches, and the historic city center, and is known for its physical demands and scenic appeal. Participation is limited to 3,500 athletes, and the event features refreshment stations, medical support, and side activities such as the traditional African Dinner. It is considered one of the most emblematic sporting events in the city and a symbol of the connection between athletics and Legion values.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://carreraafricana.com/marcha-carrera/|title=Marcha – Carrera – Carrera Africana|access-date=2022-02-05|language=es}}{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===== Melilla Sailing Week =====
The Melilla Sailing Week (Semana Náutica de Melilla) is an annual event held in August at the Noray Marina, organized by the Royal Maritime Club of Melilla. It combines competitive sailing events—such as dinghy and offshore regattas—with recreational, cultural, and educational activities.

The event features the highlight Two Continents Offshore Regatta, linking Melilla with Motril. In addition, it includes workshops, guided tours, concerts, and family-friendly activities under the motto “A Sea Without Barriers,” promoting inclusion and universal access to nautical sports. It is a key event for sports tourism and the cultural life of the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/vii-semana-nautica-vela-ligera-entra-escena/|title=La VII Semana Náutica de Vela Ligera entra en escena - El Faro de Melilla|access-date=2025-03-09|date=2019-08-10|language=es}}</ref>

=== Traditional clothing ===
[[File:Traje típico de Melilla.jpg|left|thumb|Traditional women's outfit of Melilla]]
The traditional women's outfit of Melilla has a relatively recent history, dating back to 1994 when Joaquín Callejón and Diego Piñero designed the regional attire that would be worn by the Melilla contestant in the [[Miss Spain]] competition. The outfit was meant to represent the four cultures present in the city, be blue (like the flag of Melilla), and incorporate typical elements. Fishing nets with white madroños were included in the skirt, floral embroidery on the apron and sleeves, and details such as organza, representing Berber and Hindu influences. The fringes of the neckline formed the Star of David, symbolizing Jewish culture. The design was later adapted into a male version for Mister Melilla.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-28 |title=El traje regional de Melilla: la representación de las culturas en un vestido |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/traje-regional-melilla-representacion-culturas-vestido/ |accessdate=2025-04-05 |language=es}}</ref>

=== Bullfighting ===
[[File:Plaza de toros de Melilla (4956255397).jpg|thumb|[[Plaza de Toros de Melilla|Melilla Bullring]]]]
The importance of bullfighting in Melilla dates back to 1946, the year of the first bullfight in the city, when the construction of the [[Plaza de Toros de Melilla|Melilla Bullring]] was still unfinished. The official inauguration of the bullring took place a year later.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Heras |first=Mario de las |date=2023-08-31 |title=La única corrida de toros en África: vuelve la Feria de Melilla con Talavante, de Justo y Caballero |url=https://www.eldebate.com/cultura/20230831/unica-corrida-toros-africa-vuelve-feria-melilla-talavante-justo-caballero_136763.html#:~:text=1946%20fue%20el%20a%C3%B1o%20en,de%20construcci%C3%B3n%20de%20la%20plaza. |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=El Debate |language=es}}</ref>

=== Cuisine ===
The traditional cuisine of Melilla is very diverse. It is part of the [[Mediterranean diet]], based on [[olive oil]], [[Cereal|cereals]], [[Legume|legumes]], [[Vegetable|vegetables]], [[fish]], [[Nut (food)|nuts]], and [[meat]], as well as a long-standing tradition of [[wine]] consumption. Additionally, it has a unique blend of [[Spaniards|Spanish]], [[Riffians|Riffian]], [[Andalusians|Andalusian]], [[Maghrebis|Maghrebi]], and [[Sephardic Jews|Sephardic]] influences, resulting in a rich and varied cuisine full of intense flavours and traditions from different cultures. Some of the most representative dishes of Melilla are:

* Rape a la Rusadir: A typical dish of Melilla, known for its preparation with monkfish and a variety of local ingredients.[[File:El Pimpi Pescaíto frito (5782407641).jpg|thumb|[[Pescado frito]]]]
* [[Paella]]: A classic Spanish dish, also adopted in the Riffian region.
* [[Olla gitana]]: A traditional Andalusian dish made with legumes, meats, and vegetables.
* Pollo a la moruna: Spiced and marinated chicken in the Riffian style, one of the most prominent specialties.
* [[Harira]]: A Maghrebi soup made with meat, lentils, chickpeas, and spices, ideal to start a meal.
* Cazuela de pescados: A traditional Spanish fish stew prepared with fresh seafood.[[File:Pinchitos de cordero.jpg|thumb|[[Pinchitos]]]]
* [[Pescado frito]]: A typical Andalusian and Riffian dish, where the fish is fried in hot oil until crispy.
* [[Shellfish]]: Especially [[Clam|clams]], [[Shrimp and prawn as food|shrimp and prawns]], cooked with garlic or grilled, highlighting their freshness and flavour.
* [[Pinchitos]]: Skewers of spiced meat, a popular dish on Melilla's grills.
* [[Tagine]]: A traditional Maghrebi stew made with fish, chicken, beef, lamb, or kefta (minced meat), slowly cooked in a clay tagine.
* Ensalada cocha (Matbuja): A Sephardic dish made with vegetables and fresh seasonings, light and refreshing in taste.
* [[File:Cortadillo de Melilla (1).jpg|thumb|Cortadillo]][[Couscous]]: A classic Maghrebi dish, made from semolina wheat and served with a variety of stews.
* [[Msemmen|Msemen]]: Flaky, layered flatbreads typical of Riffian cuisine, similar to pancakes or crepes.
* [[File:Moroccan Mint Tea - 1.jpg|thumb|[[Maghrebi mint tea]]]][[Pastilla]]: A traditional Maghrebi pie filled with meat, dried fruits, and spices, wrapped in puff pastry.
* [[Chebakia]]: A traditional Maghrebi sweet, made of fried dough soaked in honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
* Cortadillo: A Spanish sweet, similar to sponge cake, made with flour, sugar, and oil.
* [[Maghrebi mint tea]]: A refreshing drink, very popular in the Riffian region, typically enjoyed after meals.

This culinary diversity reflects the rich cultural heritage of Melilla, blending ingredients and techniques from both Mediterranean and African cuisines.

=== Melilla in popular culture ===
==== Novels ==== 
Some of the most notable novels set in Melilla include:<ref>{{cite book|access-date=2022-02-22 |first=HOYOS RAGEL María del |date=2015-05-07 |isbn=978-84-362-6949-9 |language=es |last=Carmen |publisher=Editorial UNED |title=MELILLA Y LA POESÍA ESPAÑOLA DESDE 1900 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9k79CAAAQBAJ&dq=generacion+27+melilla&pg=PT208}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|access-date=2022-02-23 |date=1909 |first=Carmen de |language=es |last=Burgos |title=En la guerra: (Episodios de Melilla) |journal=El Cuento Semanal |volume=3 |issue=148 |url=https://www.cervantesvirtual.com/obra/en-la-guerra-episodios-de-melilla-1053849/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2022-02-23 |language=es-ES |title=Novelas para viajar a Melilla |url=https://www.hoteles.net/melilla/rutas-literarias-melilla.html |website=Hoteles}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2022-02-24 |language=es |last=Colaboraciones |title="Melilla 1921, crónicas de guerra" |url=https://elpueblodeceuta.es//art/57653/melilla-1921-cronicas-de-guerra |website=El Pueblo de Ceuta|date=7 April 2021 }}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite journal |author=María Gajate Bajo |title=Lo que ocurre es que él es ella: un análisis de las crónicas de Teresa de Escoriaza durante el Desastre de Annual |journal=Pasado y Memoria |issue=23 |date=2021 |doi=10.14198/PASADO2021.23.09 |doi-access=free|hdl=10045/116897 |hdl-access=free }}</ref>

* Cuando leas esta carta by Vicente Gramaje
* Demiurgo: El despertar de los necios by Francisco Elipe Torné and Ferrán Cubells Tomeo
* Corsarios de Levante and [[The Queen of the South (novel)|The Queen of the South]] by [[Arturo Pérez Reverte]]
* Mi Melilla Entrevista (1949) by Vicente Aleixandre
* Canto a Melilla (1920) by Alberto Álvarez de Cienfuegos
* Empezando la Vida. Memorias de una Infancia en Melilla (1914-1920) by [[Carmen Conde]]
* En la Guerra: Episodios de Melilla (1909) and her work as a war correspondent during the [[Second Melillan campaign]] by [[Carmen de Burgos]]
* Una mujer en la guerra de España by [[Carlota O'Neill]]
* La Buena Reputación by [[Ignacio Martínez de Pisón]]
* La Hija del Coronel by Martín Casariego
* El Novio del Mundo by [[Felipe Benítez Reyes]]
* La Hija de Marte by Francisco Carcaño
* Melilla la codiciada by Juan Berenguer
* Murillo 11: Melilla by Juan Guerrero Zamora
* La Reina del Azúcar by Dolores García Ruíz
* Crónicas de Guerra: Melilla 1921 by [[Indalecio Prieto]]
* Del Dolor de la Guerra (1921) by Teresa de Escoriaza

==== TV series ==== 
The most important TV series filmed and set in Melilla include:<ref>{{cite web|access-date=25 April 2019 |archive-date=2019-04-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424040420/https://melillahoy.es/noticia/117845/cultura/la-unidad-una-serie-de-movistar-que-estara-de-rodaje-en-distintos-lugares-de-la-ciudad-de-melilla-durante-tres-semanas.html |first=Luisa María |language=es |last=Sánchez Ballesteros |title='La Unidad', a Movistar + series that will be filmed in different locations of the city of Melilla for three weeks |url=http://www.melillahoy.es/noticia/117845/cultura/la-unidad-una-serie-de-movistar-que-estara-de-rodaje-en-distintos-lugares-de-la-ciudad-de-melilla-durante-tres-semanas.html |website=Melilla Hoy|date=23 April 2019 }}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=25 April 2019 |date=24 April 2019 |language=es-ES |title=Melilla, the setting for the 'La Unidad' series by Movistar+ |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/melilla-escenario-serie-unidad-movistar/ |website=El Faro de Melilla}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref>

* [[La Reina del Sur (TV series)|La Reina del Sur]] (2011)
* [[Morocco: Love in Times of War]] (2017)
* [[La unidad]] (2020)
* [[Sagrada familia]] (2022)

==== Films ==== 
Melilla has been the setting for several films:<ref>{{cite web|access-date=2025-03-28 |language=es |title=Melilla, a city of cinema - El Faro de Melilla |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/melilla-una-ciudad-de-cine/}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref>

* En Ghentar se muere fácil (1967)
* [[Golden Balls (film)|Golden Balls]] (1993)
* [[You Shall Die in Chafarinas]] (1995)
* [[The Man Who Knew Infinity]] (2015)
* [[Chavela (film)|Chavela]] (2017)
* [[Adú]] (2020)
* [[Alegría (2021 film)|Alegría]] (2021)
* [[The Jump (2020 film)|The Jump]] (2024)

==== Songs ==== 
Some of the most well-known songs dedicated to Melilla include:<ref>{{cite web|access-date=2025-03-28 |language=es |title=Melilla lyrics - Ismael Serrano |url=https://www.cancioneros.com/letras/cancion/8612/melilla-ismael-serrano |website=CANCIONEROS.COM/LETRAS}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2025-03-28 |language=es |title=VIVA MELILLA - Emilio El Moro |url=https://www.letras.com/emilio-el-moro/viva-melilla/ |website=Letras.com}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2025-03-28 |language=en |title=Leo Rubio - Pasodoble a Melilla |url=https://letsloop.com/artist/leo-rubio/song/pasodoble-a-melilla |website=LetsLoop}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2025-03-28 |title=Joaquín Díaz, complete works • Songs |url=https://funjdiaz.net/joaquin-diaz-canciones-ficha.php?id=471 |website=funjdiaz.net}}<!-- auto-translated from unknown (Italian or Spanish) by Module:CS1 translator --></ref>

* Viva Melilla (1969) by [[Emilio el Moro]]
* Para Melilla embarcamos (1979) by Joaquín Díaz
* Pasodoble a Melilla (1993) by Leo Rubio
* Melilla (2003) by [[Ismael Serrano]]

=== Media ===

==== Newspapers ====
In addition to the national newspapers, there are two local newspapers: ''Melilla Hoy''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-29 |title=Melilla Hoy - Actualidad y noticias de Melilla |url=https://melillahoy.es/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |language=es}}</ref> and ''El Faro.''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-24 |title=El Faro de Melilla - Diario digital |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |language=es}}</ref>

==== Public television ====
[[File:Televisión Melilla.svg|thumb|Televisión Melilla]]
All national television channels are broadcast, including the public Andalusian channel, Canal Sur Televisión. The city also has two local channels, Televisión Melilla<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inicio - |url=https://playmelilla.es/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=playmelilla.es |language=es}}</ref> and Popular TV,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-06-29 |title=Popular TV Melilla – Hacemos la televisión pensando en ti |url=https://populartvmelilla.es/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |archive-date=29 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190629002431/https://populartvmelilla.es/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> as well as a studio of [[RTVE|Radio Televisión Española]], which broadcasts news.

==== Radio ====
All national radio stations can be tuned in, which have local editions, including COPE,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=Cope Melilla – 98.4 FM |url=http://copemelilla.com/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |language=es}}</ref> Onda Cero,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Home |url=http://www.ondaceromelilla.net/ml/ |access-date=2025-03-19 |website=www.ondaceromelilla.net}}</ref> and others.

==== Internet ====
With the spread of the internet and social media, several media outlets and portals emerged, of which only ''MelillaMedia'' remains,<ref>{{Cite web |title=MelillaMedia |url=https://www.melillamedia.es/ |access-date=July 3, 2019 |language=es |archive-date=2 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702091802/https://www.melillamedia.es/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> which is dependent on the autonomous city.

In October 2022, a personal documentary archive of digital files with open access about Melilla and the Rif region in northern Morocco was launched, offering abundant material for researchers or students.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Personal Documentary Archive on the History of Melilla and the Rif Region in Northern Morocco |url=https://calentamientoglobalacelerado.net/fondo_documental_Melilla_Riff/ |access-date=November 11, 2022 |language=es}}</ref>

=== Amateur radio ===
The [[ISO 3166-1]] standard reserves the extension EA as the country code for [[Ceuta]] and Melilla. The call sign used by [[Amateur radio|amateur radio operators]] in these two cities is EA9, and each is considered a separate "entity."

=== Honorary distinctions granted by the city council ===
The titles, honors, and decorations officially awarded by the [[Assembly of Melilla|City Council of Melilla]], in order to recognize special merits, notable benefits, or extraordinary services, are as follows: the title of Favored Son or Adoptive Child of Melilla, the Medal of Honor of Melilla, and the Medal of the City of Melilla in its three categories: Gold, Silver, and Bronze.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Press |first=Europa |date=2012-09-15 |title=Margallo receives the distinction of 'Adoptive Son' of Melilla, praising the recognition of Spain's military heroes |url=https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-margallo-recibe-distincion-hijo-adoptivo-melilla-elogiando-reconocimiento-heroes-militares-espana-20120915173623.html |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=www.europapress.es}}</ref>

The first and highest distinctions granted by the City Council of Melilla are those of Favored Son, for distinguished citizens born in Melilla ([[Fernando Arrabal]] or [[Javier Imbroda]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=News about Favored Son in El Faro de Melilla |url=https://elfarodemelilla.es/etiquetas/hijo-predilecto/ |access-date=2025-03-09 |language=es}}</ref> among others), and Adoptive Child, for notable individuals not born in Melilla ([[José Manuel García-Margallo]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Autonómico |first=Confidencial |date=2012-06-21 |title=The UCD seat that earned García Margallo the title of 'Favored Son' of Melilla |url=https://autonomico.elconfidencialdigital.com/articulo/muy-confidencial/UCD-Predilecto-Melilla-Garcia-Margallo/20120621030000013885.html |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=Confidencial Autonómico |language=es}}</ref> or [[Carlota O'Neill]]).