Queen's Gate: A Portal to Gibraltar's Past
Discover Queen's Gate in Gibraltar: a historic landmark offering stunning views and encounters with the famous Barbary macaques.
Queen's Gate stands as a remarkable historical landmark in Gibraltar, embodying the region's storied past. This iconic entrance, characterized by its architectural design, serves as a gateway to the past and a symbol of Gibraltar's enduring spirit. The gate was created around 1790 by breaching the Charles V Wall, which was initially constructed in 1540 under the command of Philip II of Spain. Located just above Prince Ferdinand's Battery, now known as Ape's Den, Queen's Gate provides access to Inglis Way, a popular walk within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. The area around Queen's Gate is inhabited by a large population of Barbary macaques, also known as Rock Apes, which are a major tourist attraction. These macaques often roam freely, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. During World War II, Queen's Gate Battery was the site of two 6-inch guns capable of firing over 6,000 yards (5,500 m). Today, Queen's Gate is more than just a historical structure; it's a place where visitors can immerse themselves in Gibraltar's history, enjoy panoramic views, and encounter its famous primate residents.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds.
- Be aware of your belongings when near the Barbary macaques, as they are known to be curious and opportunistic.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the area around Queen's Gate is ideal for walking and exploring the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
A brief summary to Queen's Gate
- 4MJ2+VH3, Gibraltar, GI
Getting There
-
Walking
From Casemates Square, head south along Main Street. Continue until you reach the end of Main Street at the Alameda Gardens. Turn right onto the main road, following it for a short distance until you see Queen's Gate on your left, just before the intersection with the road leading to the border. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes.
-
Public Transport
From the Gibraltar International Airport, take the number 5 bus towards the city center. Alight at a stop near Main Street and transfer to bus number 3, heading towards the South District. Get off at the 'Queen's Road' stop. From there, walk along Queen's Road to reach Queen's Gate. Bus fare is approximately £1.50.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the Gibraltar International Airport and in the city center. A taxi ride from the airport to Queen's Gate will cost approximately £15-£20, depending on traffic and time of day. Ensure the driver is aware of the destination, as there are other locations with similar names.
