The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and Christians occupied Vejer de la Frontera at various stages in its history. The beginnings of the town are dated to about 400 BC, and from that time for many centuries Vejer de la Frontera was a strategic point on the Costa de la Luz. The importance of the city consisted in its location on a hill that made it perfect as a defence settlement. Also its location on and easy access to the river Barbate was a big advantage.

Although the Carthaginians and Romans were in possession of this area for centuries and their influence can be seen in some places, the Moors played the most important role in developing the cultural identity of the city. The impact of Arabic art and culture was strongly reflected in the lives of the inhabitants. After the domination of Moors the catholic kings took back the whole region including Vejer.

In October 1805 the battle of Trafalgar took place in a neighbourhood of the town. The British navy under the command of Admiral Nelson outmanoeuvred the united French-Spanish fleet and the thunder of fire could be heard in Vejer de la Frontera. Six years later the village was occupied by Napoleon`s troops.

Now, many hundred years after Moorish domination, their influence on the customs and culture is still evident. The black gowns worn by “las cobijadas”, small, rural shops selling Arabic handicrafts, and the whitewashed houses are the greatest proof of the importance of the Moorish epoch in the history of the region of Andalusia.