A large yellow and white building with two towers

Ceuta: The History

1415 to 1580 – Portuguese Ceuta
On the afternoon of August 21, 1415, Ceuta was taken by the troops of João Vaz de Almeida. This occurred 77 years before the Catholic Monarchs completed the Reconquista with the capture of Granada in 1492.

In 1580, with the Iberian Union, Ceuta came under the Spanish Crown when Portugal was incorporated into the Hispanic Monarchy.

1580 to today – Spanish Ceuta
In 1640, when Portugal separated from the Hispanic Monarchy, the people of Ceuta requested to remain under the Crown of Castile. The situation was formally settled in 1668 with the Treaty of Lisbon, in which Spain recognized Portugal’s independence and, at the same time, Ceuta’s belonging to Spain was confirmed. A status that continues to this day.

I BC to V AD – Roman Era
From the time of the Roman Empire, Ceuta formed part of the Hispano‑Roman world. Its daily life, commerce, and administration depended on the province of Hispania Baetica, and its connection with the Iberian Peninsula was constant and essential.

429 – Vandal Invasion
In the year 429, the Vandals crossed from Hispania into North Africa and took Ceuta as part of their advance across the region.

533 – Visigothic and Byzantine
Ceuta once again became linked to the Hispanic sphere. The Visigoths, heirs of the Roman world in Hispania, maintained a presence in the city until the Byzantines recovered part of the African coastline in their attempt to rebuild the ancient Empire.

709 – Surrender by Count Julian
In the year 709, Ceuta was under Visigothic authority, and its governor, Count Julian, handed the city over to the Arab forces. This act opened the door to the Muslim entry into the Iberian Peninsula.

An act of Love

Renew the faith of Ceuta and Spain

The consecration of Ceuta and Spain to Mary is a commitment that renews a legacy of faith, peace, and unity. We join our prayers in this continuous intercession

The Custodian of Ceuta: Saint Mary of Africa

The image of Saint Mary of Africa arrived in Ceuta in the 15th century, sent from Lisbon by Prince Henry the Navigator. From then on, the Virgin became the spiritual beacon of the city, accompanying the people of Ceuta through wars, epidemics, and moments of profound crisis.

Her statue was placed in the Church‑Sanctuary of Saint Mary of Africa, where it remains today. Her image stands as a tangible symbol of the deep Marian faith rooted in the heart of Ceuta, uniting generations beneath her protective mantle.

Today, Saint Mary of Africa is the patroness of Ceuta. Her devotion has remained alive for more than six centuries, enduring beyond borders, kingdoms, and political changes. A maternal presence that continues to guide and shelter the city.