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What is now known as the town of Sidi Ifni was originally a Spanish settlement known as Santa Cruz del Mar pe quena. Some claim the city was originally a slaving outpost. Founded in 1834, the city was abandoned several decades later due to conflicts with the indigenous inhabitants. It was awarded to Spain after the Spanish Morrocan war in 1859. The Spanish did not take full posession of the small town until 1934. During these years, the Spanish slowly transformed the small town into a military enclave. They constructed a military barracks, a small church and a consulate. The town's signature lighthouse was built in 1949 and is still in operation today. By the mid 1950's, 60% of the town's population was Spanish. Moroccan and Spanish children attended the same schools and a small tourist market soon developed. In 1961, work began on the port which was completed in 1965. During these years, a dispute over Ifni insued between Morocco and Spain resulting in a blockade for a period of time. Eventually the Spanish agreed to cede the territory back to Morocco. June 30, 1969 is considered Ifni's Independence Day. The day is marked by weeks of celebration. Every Summer there is a lively festival in the abandoned airfield. |
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