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Shrine of Our Lady of Europe: Gibraltar's Southernmost Sanctuary

Discover the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe in Gibraltar: a historic sanctuary offering faith, stunning views, and a rich cultural experience at Europa Point.

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The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, located at Europa Point in Gibraltar, is a Roman Catholic church with a rich history. Originally a mosque, it was converted into a Christian shrine in 1462 and is dedicated to the Patroness of Europe, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

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 before visiting, as they may vary, especially on weekends.
  • Take time to stroll around the grounds for stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Visit during weekday mornings for a more personal and less crowded experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Europa Point Lighthouse, walk south towards Europa Road. Continue straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection; the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe will be on your right. Alternatively, if you are near the Pillars of Hercules, walk back towards the main road and proceed southwards along the coast until you spot signs for the Shrine. The shrine is approximately a 10-minute walk from the Pillars of Hercules. There are sidewalks for pedestrian safety.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe using public transport, take bus routes 3 or 4 towards Europa Point. Alight at the bus stop closest to the Europa Point. From there, it's a short walk to the shrine. Bus fares typically range from £1.50 to £2.50. Consider using the Gibraltar Pass for seamless and efficient public transportation.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar, including at the airport, border, and main squares. A taxi ride from the city center to the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe will take approximately 10-15 minutes. The estimated fare is around £13.60, with a base fare of £3.60 and £2.00 per kilometer. Hotel reception staff can also assist in calling a taxi.

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Discover more about Shrine of our Lady of Europe

The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe stands as a beacon of faith and history at Gibraltar's Europa Point. Originally a mosque built during the Moorish period, it was transformed into a Christian shrine in 1462 when the Spanish recaptured Gibraltar. King Ferdinand IV dedicated the entire continent of Europe to the Mother of God here, bestowing the title 'Our Lady of Europe'. The shrine houses a statue of the Virgin and Child, a 15th-century carving that has survived pillaging and historical upheavals. The statue is small, just two feet tall, and depicts the Virgin seated with the Child Jesus on her lap, both crowned and holding a scepter. The scepter features three flowers, symbolizing Love, Truth, and Justice. Over the centuries, the shrine gained fame and popularity among sailors, soldiers, and even pirates. Ships passing through the Strait of Gibraltar would salute Our Lady, and mariners often made offerings. A light was kept burning in the shrine's tower, serving as a navigational beacon. After being damaged and used as a storehouse and library, the shrine was restored in the 20th century. In 1979, Pope John Paul II officially approved Our Lady of Europe as the Patroness of Gibraltar. In 2009, the shrine received the Golden Rose, the highest Papal award for any shrine, commemorating 700 years of devotion to Our Lady of Europe. Today, the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe is a Roman Catholic parish church and national shrine, belonging to the European Marian Network. Visitors can explore its simple architecture, which retains some Moorish features, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

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