Puente Mayorga on the Bay of Gibraltar

Puente Mayorga is a natural harbour on the Bay of Gibraltar in San Roque municipality, province of Cadiz, Andalucia

By Nick Nutter | Updated 15 Mar 2022 | Cádiz | Villages | Login to add to YOUR Favourites or Read Later

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Gibraltar across the Bay

The first time Puente Mayorga is mentioned is in the archives of San Roque. In 1540 a Turkish fleet raided the district. It is recorded that they destroyed 200 full wineskins and killed 300 pigs. Puente Mayorga is a natural harbour on the north side of the Bay of Gibraltar. It is named after the 18th century bridge over the Rio de los Gallegos and, despite being alongside the industrial complex of San Roque, is still a picturesque place with the Rock of Gibraltar providing a dramatic backdrop.

Carteia and Torre del Rocadillo

Puente Mayorga

Sandwiched between La Linea de la Concepcion and Los Barrios, Puente Mayorga has a population of about 2000 and, despite its late mention in the history books, dates back to at least Phoenician times. The Carthaginian – Roman ruins of Carteia are just behind the beach alongside the 16th century Torre del Rocadillo.

Economy

Carteia

A small fishing community eke out a livelihood, but the main employers are the oil refinery and the power station at Los Barrios.

Playa de Guadarranque

Playa Guadarranque

On summer Sundays the locals head for the 800 metre long beach, Playa de Guadarranque. It is surprisingly clean considering the nearby industry and equipped with showers and a Red Cross station. There are no chiringuitos. Playa Guadarranque’s saving grace is the spectacular view of Gibraltar on the far side of the bay.

Puente Mayorga Bridge

Torre de Rocadillo

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