Monumento del Llano Amarillo

Monumento del Llano Amarillo is a fifteen-metre monument standing in Ceuta, the Spanish enclave on the northern coast of Africa, at the foot of Mount Hacho. The sculpture was relocated here in 1962 after being moved from Moroccan territory, and it is now counted among the very few surviving monuments from Spain's nationalist period following the Civil War. For visitors exploring Ceuta, it offers a rare combination of political history and a striking view over the Strait of Gibraltar.

How do you get there?

Ceuta sits on a peninsula, separated from mainland Spain by the Strait of Gibraltar and bordering Morocco by land. The most common way in is the ferry from Algeciras, a crossing of roughly an hour; flying via nearby Malaga or Tangier airports with a onward transfer is another option. Once in the city, the monument stands at the base of Mount Hacho, the hill overlooking Ceuta's centre — a short drive or taxi ride of about fifteen minutes from the port and main streets. Walking trails along the hillside also lead up toward the site and are popular with locals as a scenic route.

What will you see on site?

The monument's slender fifteen-metre form rises above the surrounding greenery, standing out against the rocky, rugged backdrop of Mount Hacho. It is one of the few structures of its kind still standing anywhere in Spain or its overseas territories from the post-war nationalist period — most comparable works from those decades were later removed or altered, which makes this monument a rare surviving marker of the era. The setting itself is worth the trip: the slope of Mount Hacho opens onto views of the city, the harbour, and the strait, and on a clear day you can make out the coastline on the opposite shore.

When is the best time to visit?

Ceuta enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, so the monument and the surrounding viewpoint trails are accessible year-round. Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October) are the most comfortable seasons, with moderate temperatures once the summer heat has passed. In summer, plan an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the strongest sun on the exposed hillside. Access to the site is free and it can be seen at any time of day.

How much time should you set aside?

Viewing the monument itself takes only a few minutes — enough to take in its form and read any information panels on site. Most visitors pair the stop with a walk along the Mount Hacho trails or a longer visit to Ceuta's historic centre, which stretches the outing to two or three hours. It works well as one stop on a route that mixes the city's sights with some time outdoors.

Frequently asked questions

What is Monumento del Llano Amarillo? It is a fifteen-metre monument in Ceuta, relocated here from Morocco in 1962, and one of the few surviving monuments from Spain's nationalist period after the Civil War.

Where exactly is it located? It stands at the foot of Mount Hacho, the hill rising above the centre of Ceuta, the Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the monument sits in a public outdoor space and can be viewed free of charge at any time of day.

Can it be combined with other things to see in Ceuta? Yes — the area around Mount Hacho has walking trails and viewpoints over the Strait of Gibraltar, and the historic centre of Ceuta, with its fortifications and old town, is close by.