Museo Histórico Militar de Melilla

About the museum

The Baluarte de la Concepción stands on the highest point of the first fortified enclosure of Melilla la Vieja. Its construction began in the 16th century, and it underwent various reforms until it acquired its current configuration at the end of the 18th century. When it lost its defensive function it was a gunpowder store until 1912, and later a prison, a meteorological office and housing for poor families. In 1953 it was adapted as the Municipal Museum of Melilla.

Since 15 July 1997 it has housed the Military History Museum, which was inaugurated on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the Spanish presence in the city. It depends on the Army through the Institute of Military History and Culture. The ensemble of Melilla la Vieja was declared a Historic-Artistic Ensemble in 1953 and a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1986.

The permanent collection exceeds 600 items, mostly donated by the Autonomous City, the Army Museum and private individuals, and all of them relate to the military history of Melilla and its units. The museum occupies two exhibition rooms and several terraces with views over the city.

Highlights

• Cannon “Calabrino”, twin of “El Caminante”
• Enigma cipher machine
• Saddle of Queen Isabella II
• Sabre, baton of command and sash of General Margallo
• Terraces of the bastion with views over the city

Permanent exhibition

• Historia militar de Melilla – Permanent collection of more than 600 items on the military history of Melilla and its units, from the early modern period to the 20th century.

Founded

1997

Operated by

Ejército de Tierra – Instituto de Historia y Cultura Militar

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Free admission.

Accessibility

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Kids & families

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Getting there & parking

The museum's entrance can only be reached on foot or by taxi. 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 (Cuesta de la Florentina, no number; every day 07:45–23:00).

Amenities & dining

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Events & venue rental

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