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Shrine of Our Lady of Europe: Gibraltar's Beacon of Faith

Discover the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe in Gibraltar: a historic beacon of faith with stunning views at the continent's edge.

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The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, located at Gibraltar's Europa Point, is a Roman Catholic parish church with a rich history. Originally a mosque, it was converted to a shrine in 1462, symbolizing the Christian reconquest of Gibraltar. The shrine houses a revered statue of the Virgin and Child and offers stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar.

A brief summary to Shrine of our Lady of Europe

  • Shrine of Our Lady of Europe GX11 1AA Gibraltar GI, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
  • +35020071230

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary, especially on weekends.
  • Visit during weekday mornings for a more personal and less crowded experience.
  • Take advantage of the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape; don't forget your camera !
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque at Europa Point, walk west along Europa Road. The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe will be on your right, a short distance away. The walk is less than 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Gibraltar city center, take Bus 2 towards Europa Point. Alight at the Europa Point bus stop. From there, walk back towards the main road and follow the signs to the shrine, which will be on your right. The bus fare is approximately £1.50-£2.50. A Hopper ticket, allowing unlimited travel on Gibraltar buses, is also available.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A taxi from the city center to the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe will cost approximately £5-£10. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Shrine of our Lady of Europe

The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe stands as a testament to Gibraltar's layered history and enduring faith. Situated at Europa Point, the southernmost tip of the territory, the shrine has evolved from a Moorish mosque to a Christian place of worship, reflecting the shifting tides of power that have shaped Gibraltar. In 1462, when the Spanish captured Gibraltar from the Moors, the mosque was quickly converted into a shrine dedicated to Our Lady, honoring her as the Patroness of Europe. This act symbolized the intent to devote the entire continent to Christianity. A chapel was built, and a statue of the Virgin and Child, crafted from wood and painted in royal blue, gold, and red, was installed. Over the centuries, the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe gained renown, revered by soldiers, sailors, and even pirates. Mariners passing through the Strait of Gibraltar would salute the Virgin, often bringing offerings to the shrine. A light was kept burning in the tower, serving as a navigational beacon. Despite being plundered by pirates, the statue of the Virgin and Child miraculously survived. The shrine has faced periods of neglect, including use as a storehouse. However, a revival in the 1960s led to restoration efforts, and in 1979, Pope John Paul II officially recognized Our Lady of Europe as the Patroness of Gibraltar. In 2009, the shrine received the Golden Rose, a prestigious papal award. Today, the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe continues to be a place of worship and a historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Gibraltar's past and a place for reflection.

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