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South Bastion: A Historical Fortress

Explore South Bastion in Gibraltar: a historic fortress with stunning views, showcasing centuries of military architecture and strategic importance.

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South Bastion, a key part of Gibraltar's fortifications, was originally built by Spanish engineers in the 16th century and later enhanced by the British. It stands as a testament to the strategic importance of Gibraltar, offering visitors a glimpse into its military past and stunning views of the bay.

A brief summary to South Bastion

  • 110 Queensway Rd, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring uneven surfaces and stone pathways.
  • Take time to read the informational plaques to gain deeper insights into the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street. Turn left onto Queensway Road and continue for approximately 10 minutes. South Bastion will be on your right at 110 Queensway Rd.

  • Public Transport

    Take any bus heading towards 'Gibraltar Town' or 'Queensway'. Disembark at the bus stop nearest to the Gibraltar Museum. Walk south on Main Street, then turn left onto Queensway Road. South Bastion is located at 110 Queensway Road, approximately a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus ticket costs approximately £1.60-£1.80.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from various points in Gibraltar, including the airport and Casemates Square. Ask the driver to take you to South Bastion at 110 Queensway Road. A short taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately £7.00-£14.00, depending on the distance and time of day.

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Discover more about South Bastion

South Bastion, or Baluarte de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, is a significant historical landmark in Gibraltar, embodying centuries of military and architectural evolution. Constructed initially around 1540 by Spanish military engineers, it formed a crucial part of Gibraltar's defenses, protecting the western base of the Charles V Wall. The British later improved the bastion after capturing Gibraltar in 1704. Strategically positioned at the south end of the Line Wall Curtain, the bastion defended the town from attacks from the Bay of Gibraltar. A connecting curtain wall ran east to the base of a precipice, featuring the Southport Gates guarded by South Bastion and the Flat Bastion. The bastion's design included casemated gun positions that enfiladed the ditch across the Gate of Africa, now the Southport Gate. Over the centuries, South Bastion underwent several transformations. Neglected initially by the British, it was strengthened in 1757 by Lord Tyrawley. In 1870, it was reconstructed to accommodate 10-inch RML guns within iron-shielded casemates. Today, the bastion houses the Gibraltar College and features a statue of Horatio Nelson, commemorating his victory and death at the Battle of Trafalgar. Visitors can explore the historic corridors, stroll along the ramparts, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the African coast.

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