Gorham's Cave: A Neanderthal Legacy
Explore Gorham's Cave in Gibraltar, a UNESCO site revealing Neanderthal history and stunning Mediterranean vistas.
Gorham's Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gibraltar, offers a unique glimpse into Neanderthal life. This sea-level cave, discovered in 1907, contains archaeological deposits spanning 120,000 years, marking one of the last known Neanderthal habitats in Europe. Visitors can explore the cave's history and enjoy stunning Mediterranean views.
A brief summary to Gorham's Cave
- 4MC5+45M, Gibraltar, GI
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance through the Gibraltar National Museum due to limited availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on potentially uneven terrain around the cave and on the Mediterranean Steps.
- Bring your passport or Gibraltar Identity Card for access to the Nature Reserve and potential tours.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as tours may be postponed due to adverse conditions.
- Consider visiting the Europa Advance Batteries Viewing Platform for accessible views of the site.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Gorham's Cave using public transport, take a bus from the main bus station in Gibraltar towards the Upper Rock. Look for bus routes that specifically mention the Nature Reserve. Alight at the Upper Rock bus stop, where a small fare (approximately £2.50) may be required. From there, follow the well-marked footpaths into the Nature Reserve, a walk of about 20-30 minutes to Gorham's Cave. Remember to check the bus schedule for return trips.
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Walking
If walking from central Gibraltar, begin at Main Street and head towards the entrance of the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Follow signs towards the Upper Rock. Upon entering the reserve, an entry fee of around £5 may be required. Continue along the marked trails until you reach Gorham's Cave, enjoying scenic views along the way.
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Driving
When driving, head towards the Gibraltar Nature Reserve from the center of Gibraltar. Follow signs for 'Nature Reserve' and take the main road up the Rock. At the reserve entrance, a fee of approximately £5 per person may be required. Continue on the road until you reach the designated parking area near the Upper Rock. From the parking lot, it's a short hike to Gorham's Cave via clearly marked trails. Parking is also available at Europa Point, a short walk away. Note that parking can be limited.
Discover more about Gorham's Cave
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