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O'Hara's Battery: Gibraltar's Crowning Vista

Discover Gibraltar's military history at O'Hara's Battery, the Rock's highest point, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the past.

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Perched atop the Rock of Gibraltar, O'Hara's Battery is a historic artillery battery offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean, Spain, and North Africa. Named after Governor Charles O'Hara, it stands as a testament to Gibraltar's strategic military importance.

A brief summary to O'Hara's Battery

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and involves a steep ascent.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for a more tranquil experience and optimal lighting for photos.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be strenuous.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve to make the most of your trip.
  • Keep an eye out for Barbary macaques, but do not feed them.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Gibraltar Cable Car top station, walk downhill towards St. Michael's Cave. After about 10 minutes, you'll see a fork in the road; take the path leading to O'Hara's Battery. The walk is approximately 15 minutes with clear paths and offers stunning views. Note that a Nature Reserve ticket is required for access.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus to the main bus terminal in Gibraltar. From there, transfer to a bus heading towards the Upper Rock area. Get off at the stop closest to Devil's Gap Road or Europa Rd - Shorthorn Farm. From Devil's Gap Road, walk uphill for approximately 15-20 minutes to reach O'Hara's Battery. From Europa Rd - Shorthorn Farm, it is an 8 minute walk. Bus tickets cost approximately £2.20 for a single journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gibraltar. Hire a taxi from the town center or the airport to the entrance of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. From there, you can either walk to O'Hara's Battery (approximately 20-25 minutes) or take a short taxi ride if available. A taxi ride from the town center to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve entrance will cost approximately £25-£30.

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Discover more about O'Hara's Battery

O'Hara's Battery, crowning the Rock of Gibraltar, is more than just a historical site; it's a journey through time and a feast for the eyes. Located at the highest point of the Rock, near the southern end of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it offers unparalleled views. From this vantage point, you can see across the Strait of Gibraltar to the Rif Mountains of Morocco and the Spanish Costa del Sol. Originally the site of a watchtower known as O'Hara's Folly, the battery was constructed in 1890. The tower, envisioned by Governor Charles O'Hara to monitor the port of Cadiz, proved ineffective, hence the nickname. The battery itself was armed with a series of large artillery guns, most notably a 9.2 inch Mark X BL gun installed in 1901, capable of striking targets up to 16 miles away. The battery played a crucial role in Gibraltar's defense, remaining active through World War II and last fired in training exercises in 1976. Today, O'Hara's Battery has been meticulously restored and opened to the public. Visitors can explore the gun emplacements, underground chambers, and connecting tunnels, gaining insight into the lives of the soldiers who served here. The site is a reminder of Gibraltar's enduring military heritage and strategic significance.

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