a town of Spain, in a district of the same name, in the province of Extremadura, on an eminence, nine miles from the frontiers of Portugal. It is defended by an almost impregnable fortress, built on a high mountain. It was taken by the allies of Charles, king of Spain, in 1705, but was restored to the Crown in 1715. It has some trade in woollen and linen manufactures, and exports cattle and fruits. Long. 7° 0' W., Lat. 38° 52' N. Pop. 6787.

Afonso, the celebrated commander who laid the foundations of the Portuguese power in India, was born at Melinda, in Africa, in 1452. He died in 1515, at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. See PORTUGAL.—Historia de Barros; Lafitteau, Conquêtes des Portugais.