Southport Gates, Europa Point Travel Guide

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Explore Gibraltar's history through the Southport Gates, a trio of historic entrances showcasing the territory's layered past and strategic importance.

The Southport Gates in Gibraltar are a trio of historic city gates within the Charles V Wall, showcasing centuries of Gibraltarian history. Constructed in 1552, 1883, and 1967, each gate reflects a different era and architectural style, offering visitors a tangible link to the past.

A brief summary to Southport Gates

Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the surrounding area offers walking paths for exploring nearby attractions.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Trafalgar Cemetery to learn more about Gibraltar's history.
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and stories behind the Southport Gates.

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Explore Southport Gates on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Southport Gates, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street. Continue until you reach Referendum Gate, the widest of the three Southport Gates. The other two gates are a short walk further along Trafalgar Road, with Trafalgar Cemetery to the east. This is a straightforward, approximately 10-15 minute walk.
Public Transport

Take any bus that stops near Main Street. From the bus stop, walk south towards Referendum Gate, which provides access to Main Street. The other two Southport Gates are a short walk further along Trafalgar Road. A single adult bus fare is approximately £1.80.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. Ask your driver to take you to the Southport Gates on Trafalgar Road, near Trafalgar Cemetery. A short taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately £7-£14, depending on the exact starting point and time of day.

Discover more about Southport Gates

The Southport Gates are a compelling historical site in Gibraltar, comprised of three distinct city gates built into the Charles V Wall. This fortification once marked the southern boundary of the city. The original Southport Gate, also known as the Africa Gate, dates back to 1552 and was commissioned by Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor. Designed by Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Calvi, it features the Royal Arms of Charles V and the coat of arms of Gibraltar.In 1883, the 'New' Southport Gate was added to ease traffic flow. This central gate, constructed during the reign of Queen Victoria, displays the coat of arms of the Governor of Gibraltar at the time, as well as the Royal Arms of Queen Victoria. The third and widest gate, Referendum Gate, was built in 1967 to commemorate Gibraltar's first sovereignty referendum, in which Gibraltarians voted to remain under British rule.Located at the bottom of Trafalgar Hill, the gates are positioned between the South Bastion to the west and the Flat Bastion to the east, with the Trafalgar Cemetery nearby. The original and 'New' Southport Gates are situated on Trafalgar Road, while the Referendum Gate provides access to Main Street. The Southport Gates serve as a reminder of Gibraltar's strategic importance and rich history, inviting visitors to explore the city's past.