Grand Casemates Square, Upper Rock Nature Reserve Travel Guide

Experience the vibrant heart of Gibraltar: history, culture, dining, and events converge in Grand Casemates Square, a must-see destination!

Grand Casemates Square, located at the northern end of Main Street in Gibraltar, is a bustling hub filled with shops, restaurants, and historical significance. Dating back to Gibraltar's Moorish period, the square has evolved from a beach and military stronghold to a vibrant center for cultural events and social gatherings.

A brief summary to Grand Casemates Square

Gibraltar, GI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grand Casemates Square.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
Check for local events or festivals that may be taking place in the square during your visit.
Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies at nearby restaurants, especially seafood dishes.
Bring a camera; the views from the square and surrounding areas are breathtaking.
Take a guided tour to learn about the square's historical significance and the stories behind its monuments.

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Explore Grand Casemates Square on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Grand Casemates Square, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Main Street, simply head north towards the large archway that marks the entrance to Grand Casemates Square. The square is located at the end of Main Street and is easily accessible on foot. There are no costs associated with walking to the square.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus from other parts of Gibraltar, take a bus to the Market Place Terminus. From the bus terminal, Grand Casemates Square is a short, approximately 5-minute walk. A single bus fare is approximately £1.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A short taxi ride from the Gibraltar International Airport or the Port of Gibraltar to Grand Casemates Square will typically cost between £5 and £10. Ensure the taxi is licensed and agree on the fare beforehand.

Discover more about Grand Casemates Square

Grand Casemates Square, colloquially known as Casemates Square, is the larger of Gibraltar's two main squares. Its history stretches back to Gibraltar's Moorish period when the area was first fortified. Originally a beach where the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min initiated the first settlement in 1160, it later became a strategic point for the Spanish, who built a shipyard in the 15th century.Under British rule, particularly after the Great Siege of 1779-1783, the square was transformed. Damaged buildings were demolished to create an esplanade for military parades and public executions, the last of which occurred in 1864. The British constructed the Grand Casemates, a bombproof barracks completed in 1817, which gives the square its current name.In the 1990s, the square was refurbished, replacing a car park with a commercial hub. Today, Grand Casemates Square is lined with numerous pubs, bars, restaurants, and shops, acting as a gateway to Gibraltar's city center for tourists. It hosts various cultural events, including live open-air concerts, National Day celebrations, and New Year's Eve parties. Archaeological excavations in the 1990s uncovered the foundations of a 14th-century galley house, which are now preserved for public viewing.Visitors can explore the square's historical monuments, enjoy diverse cuisines, and shop for souvenirs. The square also features a statue of a Gibraltar Defence Force soldier and a Koehler depression gun carriage, adding to its historical appeal. Grand Casemates Square remains a dynamic space where history, culture, and modern life converge, making it a must-visit destination in Gibraltar.