North Eastern Atlantic

The Gulf of Cádiz lies west of the Strait of Gibraltar, where Atlantic waters connect the Iberian coast with routes toward Africa and the open ocean. Tides, currents and weather shape navigation, while ports and river mouths offer supplies and shelter. Fishing and shipping support coastal communities, and roads carry agricultural produce to the ports.

During the later Middle Ages, Iberian rulers and merchants expanded Atlantic navigation while maintaining links with North Africa and Mediterranean ports. Portuguese and Castilian voyages later connected southern Iberian harbours with Atlantic islands, Africa and the Americas. Seville and then Cádiz became major centres of Spanish overseas trade. Fleets, naval rivalry and privateering made these approaches strategically important, while fishing and coastal commerce continued.