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The region of Tarifa was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic era. Relics from this period can be found in areas such as the Silla del Papa and the Cueva del Moro. In the local mountain range, over 49 caves can be found which served as shelters in this time. These caves feature prehistoric art, and the Cueva del Moro is the most important of these caves, containing artifacts that date back more than 18,000 years.
The Necropolis de los Algarbes is an ancient cemetery from the Bronze Age, and is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the town of Tarifa.
Tarifa was reputedly founded by King Tago in 2118 BC. The city’s first name was ‘Julia Traducta,’ as mentioned by a number of Spanish historians. The current name of “Tarifa” is said to have come from the name of the Berber Tarif Ben Malluk, who arrived in the area in July, 710. The Arabs of the 7th and 8th centuries called the place “Island of Tarif,” further establishing its present day name. During this Muslim occupation, Tarifa was a very busy harbor town.
Tarifa served as a port of entry into the Andalucian area. In 1083, the Spanish Alfonso VI invaded the Moorish territory and entered Tarifa, becoming the first Christian king to do so. In the 12th century, the Spanish monarchs Alfonso VIII and Fernando II made several incursions through this port. Skirmishes between the Muslims and Christians were prevalent until 1291.
On October 20, 1340, after a great siege on Tarifa, the famous battle of the “Salado” took place. The Muslims were dealt the final crushing blow and defeated, after years of conflict.
By the beginning of the 18th century, Tarifa was a fortified garrison that resisted the French invasion.
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