The World's Most Unusual Borders: You Won't Believe Where These Countries End
2.Spain and Morocco
Border: Melilla and Ceuta Border Fences
Area: 18.5 km²
Estimated Gross Domestic Product: $147.34 billion (Morocco) / $1.968 trillion (Spain)
The border between Morocco and Spain features some of the most intriguing and complex border fences in the world, particularly in the regions of Melilla and Ceuta. One of the smallest borders globally, the Peñón de Vélez de la Gomera, measures a mere 80 meters. This peculiar border emerged from a series of treaties and conflicts dating back to the 16th century, reflecting a long and tumultuous history between the two nations.
The border fences serve not only as physical barriers but also as symbols of the political and cultural divides that have developed over centuries. They are a testament to the historical struggles for power and territory, as well as the ongoing issues surrounding immigration and security in the region.
Despite Morocco's geographic closeness and its subsequent independence, the territory has remained under Spanish control since it was first captured in 1508 as a strategic response to piracy. Originally an island, a significant earthquake in 1930 transformed it into a peninsula by forming an isthmus that connected it to the mainland. This transformation not only altered the landscape but also solidified its role as a focal point of contemporary geopolitical complexities and historical entanglements.
The enduring Spanish presence in this region reflects the intricate relationships forged through centuries of colonialism and conflict. Today, it serves as a reminder of the historical narratives that continue to shape interactions between Morocco and Spain, influencing diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges.
