History Enclave. The legacy of Cadiz in the historical memory of Spain will showcase the city's importance in the history of Spain and of humanity.
Cadiz is one of the few cities which have formed a part of the memory of Humanity ever since it was founded, as it was here that the demigod Hercules claimed the cattle of the Tartessian King Geryon. From its mythical foundation up to the present day, the city of Cadiz has played a fundamental role in history, whether as one of the great cities of the Roman Empire, famous for its trade, its seagoing reputation and its temple dedicated to Hercules, or as a vital staging post in inter-continental trade, with the transfer of the Casa de Contratación (Contracts House) to Cadiz in 1717. This relationship with the Americas, which raised it to the summit of economic power, also fostered ideas, customs, forms of thought which exerted a decisive influence on Spanish and Latin American politics through the drafting of the Constitutional Charter of 1812, and the development of liberal ideas across half the globe.
The show will recreate the history and influence of the city of Cadiz through a delightful selection of exhibits including sculptures, bronzes, oil paintings, plans, books, amphorae, coins and jewels.
