Cuevas del Conventico
Three-level underground complex carved into the rock of Melilla la Vieja, used as a refuge in the 18th century and visited with a guide.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Cuevas del Conventico are a historic underground complex excavated into the rock of Melilla la Vieja, beneath the former convent. The galleries, dating from the 18th century, served above all in times of danger: the population and religious images took refuge there, Mass was celebrated and even a bread oven operated. During the sieges of 1774 and 1775 they were adapted as a store, refuge and place of worship.
The complex has three levels. The entrance level is an irregular gallery with windows opening onto the cliff. The lower level is the most monumental, with a cross-shaped plan and a wide nave crossed along its length by three others. The middle level was the church’s ossuary, and today it serves as the descent route towards the Trápana cove.
In 1925 port works filled in the cove and altered the access from the sea. After a structural rehabilitation between 1993 and 2000, guided visits of different lengths have been offered since 2023, and the safety of the galleries and of the staircase linking to the beach has been improved. Access is from the Sacred Art Collection.
Highlights
- Three levels excavated into the rock, with a cross-shaped underground chapel
- Galleries used as refuges during the 18th-century sieges
- Guided visit ending at the Trápana cove
- Access from the Sacred Art Collection
- Operated by
- Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla – Fundación Melilla Ciudad Monumental
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Free admission.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
Melilla la Vieja has a free on-demand transport service (Monday to Friday 08:00–20:00 and Saturdays 08:00–15:00) and the Melilla la Vieja lift at the Torreón de las Cabras (Calle Cuesta de la Florentina, s/n; every day 07:45–23:00).
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Visits are arranged by telephone (+34 952 976 201) or by email (ciudadmonumental@melilla.es). |
