History of Cadiz
Cadiz is thought to be the oldest city in Europe, founded in 1100 BC by the Phoenicians who called it Gadir. The main trading products in the city were Baltic amber and British tin, as well as Spanish silver. The city became a naval base for the Romans before fading into obscurity until 1262 when it was taken from reigning the Moors by Alfonso X. 
The real boom period was after Columbus had discovered America, as he sailed from the city´s port on his second and fourth voyages. Much later the city enjoyed a prosperous period during the 18th century when it took care of 75% of Spanish trade with America. Since when it has grew into one of the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities in Spain. Moreover, most of the city’s fine buildings dated from this time.
