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St. Michael's Cave: Gibraltar's Subterranean Wonder

Explore the depths of history and natural beauty within Gibraltar's iconic St. Michael's Cave, a subterranean world of wonder.

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St. Michael's Cave, nestled within Gibraltar's Upper Rock Nature Reserve, is a captivating network of limestone caves steeped in history and natural beauty. Adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, the cave has served as a shelter for early humans, a military hospital, and even a unique venue for concerts and events.

A brief summary to Saint Michael's Cave

Local tips

  • Purchase a Nature Reserve ticket, as it includes access to St. Michael's Cave and other attractions on the Upper Rock.
  • Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid crowds and enhance your experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the cave has uneven surfaces and involves some walking.
  • Consider taking a guided tour of Lower St. Michael's Cave for a deeper exploration of the cave system (check availability with the Gibraltar Tourist Board).
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the top cable car station, walk south down St Michael's Road for approximately 25 minutes. The cave entrance will be on your left. This route offers scenic views of the Rock and the surrounding area.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from the city center to the Cable Car - Lower Station (City). From there, you can either take the cable car to the top and walk down to the cave (25 minutes), or walk up St. Michael's Road (approximately 1 hour). A Hopper bus ticket allows unlimited travel on all bus routes in Gibraltar throughout the day. Single bus fares are approximately £2.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gibraltar and can take you directly to St. Michael's Cave. A taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately £15-£20. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Saint Michael's Cave

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Discover more about Saint Michael's Cave

St. Michael's Cave, located in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in Gibraltar, is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of the Rock's geological history. This network of limestone caves, situated over 300 meters above sea level, has been sculpted over thousands of years by rainwater seeping through the rock, creating a stunning display of natural formations. Believed to have been known to prehistoric humans, evidenced by Neolithic artifacts discovered within , the cave has been a source of legend and mystery throughout history. The Romans and later the Moors, were aware of the cave, and it has been speculated that the cave was once believed to be bottomless, with some believing it to be an entrance to the mythological underworld. Legend has it that the famous Barbary macaques, Gibraltar's resident monkey population, arrived via a subterranean passage from Africa connected to the cave. Throughout the centuries, St. Michael's Cave has served various purposes. During wartime, it was used as a shelter and even prepared as a military hospital during World War II. In the Victorian era, the cave was transformed into a unique venue for parties, picnics, concerts, and even duels. Today, St. Michael's Cave is a major tourist attraction, drawing nearly a million visitors annually. The cave's interior is illuminated with colorful lights, accentuating the breathtaking formations. The largest chamber, known as the Cathedral Cave, has been converted into an auditorium with a concrete stage and seating for over 100 people, hosting concerts, plays, and the Miss Gibraltar beauty pageant. Visitors can also experience 'The Awakening,' a mesmerizing light and sound show that enhances the cave's natural beauty and historical significance.

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