Life
Barbate, often called Barbate de Franco because the ex-dictator spent many summers there, is strongly linked to the fishing industry. This industry dates back to Roman times when it was at its peak.Barbate has been settled since Prehistoric times. The Phoenicians were the first to exploit the area's natural resources, turning it into a first rate exporting centre.
When the Romans took over from the Phoenicians, the fishing industry grew. One of the most important ports along the coast was that of Baesippo, located at the mouth of the Barbate River.
Later, under Muslim rule, the area became known as Barbate, named after its castle. In the year 1250, the town was taken over by Fernando III, but the Muslims recovered it shortly afterwards. However, the definite conquest came with Alfonso X.
Throughout the thirteenth century, Barbate was a small rural community dependant on Vejer de la Frontera, which controlled the access inland by river. At that time, ships were allowed to sail up the river to Barca de Vejer.
2005 marks the 200th anniversary of the famous Battle of Trafalgar which was fought just off the Barbate coast.
