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Naval Monument at Gibraltar

Commemorating the alliance of the American and British navies during World War I, this monument offers a glimpse into Gibraltar's strategic maritime history.

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The Naval Monument at Gibraltar, also known as the American War Memorial or the American Steps, commemorates the alliance between the U.S. and British navies during World War I. Constructed in 1933 and inaugurated in 1937, the monument stands as a testament to their comradeship and achievements in the nearby waters.

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Local tips

  • The monument is easily accessible by bus; routes 2, 3, and 4 stop at the 'American Steps'.
  • Take some time to read the plaques along the American Steps, which commemorate key events and figures.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Line Wall Road to explore other historical sites in Gibraltar.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Naval Monument is located on Line Wall Road, easily accessible from the city center. From Casemates Square, walk north along Main Street, then turn left onto Line Wall Road. The monument will be on your left, incorporated into the city wall. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Gibraltar Bus Company operates several routes that stop near the Naval Monument. Take routes 2, 3, or 4 and disembark at the 'American Steps' stop. A single ticket costs £1.80, or you can purchase an all-day pass for £2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A short taxi ride from the Gibraltar International Airport to the Naval Monument will cost approximately £13.60. Taxi ranks are located at the airport, Casemates Square, and other central locations.

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Discover more about American War Memorial

The Naval Monument at Gibraltar, more formally known as the American War Memorial, is a World War I memorial that commemorates the achievements and alliance of the American and British navies. Located at the Straits of Gibraltar, the gateway to the Mediterranean Sea, the monument was constructed in 1933 by the American Battle Monuments Commission and incorporated into the Line Wall Curtain, the main city wall. It was inaugurated in 1937. The monument is a masonry archway made of stone from the Rock of Gibraltar. Above the arch are bronze seals of the United States and the Department of the Navy. The inscription on the monument reads: "Erected by the United States of America to commemorate the achievements and comradeship of the American and British navies in this vicinity during the World War". Steps lead down from the monument to the harbor, giving it the nickname "American Steps". The U.S. Navy operated a Patrol Force from Gibraltar during World War I, cooperating with the Royal Navy to combat German submarines and escort convoys. Gibraltar was a major base for these operations. In November 1998, a bronze plaque was unveiled at the monument to commemorate Operation Torch, the World War II Allied invasion of North Africa, which was led by General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was headquartered in Gibraltar.

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