Trafalgar Cemetery: A Silent Witness to History
Explore a peaceful cemetery in Gibraltar with graves of British sailors and yellow fever victims, commemorating naval history.
Trafalgar Cemetery, originally known as Southport Ditch Cemetery, was consecrated in 1798, seven years before the famed Battle of Trafalgar. Situated just south of the city walls in what was once a defensive ditch, the cemetery offers a serene, reflective atmosphere, distinct from Gibraltar's bustling activity. Despite its name commemorating the Battle of Trafalgar, only two casualties from that battle are buried here: Lieutenant William Forster of HMS Colossus and Captain Thomas Norman of the Royal Marine Corps. Most of those killed in the battle were buried at sea. The cemetery's interments primarily consist of those who perished in other naval engagements and the yellow fever epidemics that struck Gibraltar between 1804 and 1814. Over time, headstones from St. Jago's Cemetery and Alameda Gardens were moved to Trafalgar Cemetery, enriching its historical tapestry. Although the cemetery ceased active burials after 1814, with a single exception in 1838, it was restored in the 1980s and now serves as a memorial to the Battle of Trafalgar. An annual commemorative ceremony takes place on Trafalgar Day, the Sunday closest to October 21st. Visitors can explore the well-preserved gravestones and enjoy the peaceful, green environment, with diverse trees adding to the tranquil setting.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery grounds can be uneven.
- Visit during the annual Trafalgar Day ceremony for a moving historical commemoration.
- Take your time to read the inscriptions on the tombstones, each telling a unique story of Gibraltar's past.
- Enjoy the tranquility and shade offered by the various trees within the cemetery.
A brief summary to Trafalgar Cemetery
- 4JMW+WW9, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
Getting There
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Walking
From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street. Continue past the Southport Gates. The Trafalgar Cemetery is located just beyond the city walls on Trafalgar Road, a short walk from the gates. There are no costs associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
From Gibraltar Harbour, walk to the nearest bus stop on Main Street. Take bus number 2 towards 'The Upper Rock'. Alight at the 'Trafalgar Cemetery' stop. The cemetery is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare is approximately £2.20.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar, including near the Gibraltar Harbour. Request a ride to Trafalgar Cemetery, located at 4JMW+WW9, Gibraltar GX11 1AA. The taxi ride from the city center typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between £5 and £10.
