Monte Hacho facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Monte Hacho |
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Monte Hacho, with Ceuta harbour in the foreground. Fortaleza de Hacho can be seen at the top of the hill.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 204 m (669 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Ceuta (Spain) |
Monte Hacho is a small mountain located in Ceuta, a Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa. It stands proudly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Strait of Gibraltar. This mountain is quite special because some people believe it's one of the ancient Pillars of Hercules.
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What is Monte Hacho?
Monte Hacho is a mountain that is 204 meters (about 669 feet) tall. It is located on the Península de Almina, a peninsula that sticks out into the sea. From its top, you can see amazing views of the city of Ceuta and the busy waters of the Strait of Gibraltar.
The Pillars of Hercules Legend
According to an old legend, the Greek hero Hercules created the Strait of Gibraltar. The story says he pushed apart two mountains, making a connection between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. These two mountains are known as the Pillars of Hercules.
Many people believe that the Rock of Gibraltar is one of these pillars. For the other pillar, there are two main ideas:
- Some think it's Monte Hacho.
- Others believe it's Jebel Musa, a mountain in Morocco.
An Ancient Name
In ancient times, Monte Hacho might have been called Mons Abila. This name means "Mount Abila" or "Abyla." However, historians are not completely sure. This ancient name could also have referred to Jebel Musa.
A Mountain with History
Monte Hacho has been an important spot for a very long time. Because of its great location overlooking the sea, it has always been a strategic place.
The Fortaleza de Hacho
At the very top of Monte Hacho, you will find a strong fort called the Fortaleza de Hacho. This fort has a long history:
- It was first built by the Byzantines.
- Later, the Arabs, Portuguese, and Spanish all added to it and made it stronger.
Today, the fort is used by the Spanish army.
Other Important Sites
Monte Hacho is also home to a few other interesting places:
- Ermita de San Antonio: This is a peaceful convent, a place where religious people live and pray.
- Monumento del Llano Amarillo: This monument remembers an important event in Spanish history. It marks the beginning of the Spanish Civil War in North Africa in 1936. This war was a difficult time for Spain.
