Moorish Castle, Eastern Beach Travel Guide

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Explore Gibraltar's Moorish Castle: a medieval fortress with panoramic views and a rich history dating back to the 8th century.

The Moorish Castle, a medieval fortification in Gibraltar, offers a glimpse into the territory's rich and complex history. Built by the Moors in the 8th century and rebuilt in the 14th, its imposing Tower of Homage and Gate House stand as testaments to centuries of sieges and cultural exchange.

A brief summary to Moorish Castle

5 Moorish Castle Estate, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
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Monday 9:30 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-7 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-7 pm
Friday 9:30 am-7 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moorish Castle.

Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain within the castle is uneven with steep areas.
Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Combine your visit with other attractions in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve to make the most of your trip.

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Explore Moorish Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Moorish Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the Gibraltar Airport or the frontier, purchase a Hopper Ticket for unlimited travel on Gibraltar buses. Take Citibus Route 5 or Route 10 to the central marketplace. From there, connect to Route 1, which will take you to the Upper Town terminus. The closest bus stop to the Moorish Castle is Willi's Road Terminus. From there, walk uphill to the castle. A single bus fare is approximately £2.20.
Walking

From Main Street, proceed north, following signs for the Upper Rock Nature Reserve and the Moorish Castle. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 10 minutes from the Main Street bus stop. Note that the walk involves some steep inclines.
Car

If driving, navigate to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. Note that private vehicles, except for Blue Badge holders, are restricted from driving within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Limited parking is available near the castle. The closest parking is at the Grand Parade. Parking fees vary, with hourly rates around £2.00-£3.00.

Discover more about Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle, perched on the northern end of the Rock of Gibraltar, is a tangible link to the territory's layered past. Construction of the original castle commenced in the 8th century AD, though the exact date remains unrecorded. This strategic site served as a crucial defensive stronghold during the Moorish rule of Iberia, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea.The castle's most prominent features include the Tower of Homage, the highest tower from the Islamic rule in the Iberian Peninsula, offering panoramic views of Gibraltar, Spain, and Morocco. The Gate House, with its cupola roof, is another iconic element, showcasing the castle's resilience through turbulent times. The castle complex also features gardens and a small museum where visitors can delve deeper into its history.Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous expansions and modifications, reflecting the diverse influences of Moorish, Spanish, and British rulers. It served not only as a military fortress but also as a prison until 2010. Today, the Moorish Castle is integrated into Gibraltar's Upper Rock Nature Reserve, offering visitors a chance to explore its architecture, learn about its history, and appreciate its strategic significance.