Prince Ferdinand's Battery, Upper Rock Nature Reserve Travel Guide

4.3 (11)

Explore Prince Ferdinand's Battery in Gibraltar: a historic site offering stunning views and a chance to see the famous Barbary macaques.

Home
Travel Guides
Gibraltar
Upper Rock Nature Reserve
Prince Ferdinand's Battery

Prince Ferdinand's Battery, now known as the Apes' Den, is a historical artillery battery in Gibraltar that offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's military past. Constructed in the 18th century, it played a crucial role in defending Gibraltar against naval threats. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction where visitors can observe the famous Barbary macaques.

A brief summary to Prince Ferdinand's Battery

4MJ2+RGJ, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prince Ferdinand's Battery.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the battery can be uneven.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Rock of Gibraltar.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Explore Prince Ferdinand's Battery on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Prince Ferdinand's Battery, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Casemates Square, head south along Main Street. Continue onto the A308, following signs for the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. Enter the reserve and follow the Mediterranean Steps uphill. Continue along the trail until you see signs for Prince Ferdinand's Battery. The walk from the entrance of the Nature Reserve to the battery is approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that there is an entrance fee to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, which includes access to the Apes' Den.
Public Transport

Take a bus from the city center towards the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. Route 1 is one option, with the last stop near the Moorish Castle entrance. From the bus stop, follow the signs directing you to Prince Ferdinand's Battery. The walk from the bus stop to the battery is approximately 15-20 minutes. A single bus ticket costs approximately £1.60-£1.80. Note that there is an entrance fee to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, which includes access to the Apes' Den.
Taxi

Take a taxi from the city center or the airport to the entrance of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. From there, it's a 15-20 minute walk to Prince Ferdinand's Battery. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center costs around £20. A 5km taxi ride in Gibraltar costs about £13.60. Remember to factor in the entrance fee for the Gibraltar Nature Reserve, which includes access to the Apes' Den.

Discover more about Prince Ferdinand's Battery

Prince Ferdinand's Battery, strategically positioned on the Rock of Gibraltar, was a vital component of the territory's defense system. Named after Prince Ferdinand of Brunswick, a prominent military leader, the battery housed a formidable array of artillery pieces, serving as a deterrent against potential threats. Its cannons played a crucial role in defending Gibraltar from enemy ships and fortifications.Over the years, Prince Ferdinand's Battery witnessed significant historical events, potentially including action during the Great Siege of Gibraltar in the late 18th century. Today, the area is better known as the Apes' Den, a popular spot for tourists to see Gibraltar's Barbary macaques. The battery is located at the base of the upper section of Charles V Wall, within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, near Queen's Gate.Visitors can explore the remnants of the battery, including gun emplacements and fortifications, while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Informative plaques provide insights into the site's historical significance and its role in various conflicts.