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Pillars of Hercules: Gibraltar's Mythic Gateway

Discover the Pillars of Hercules in Gibraltar: Where ancient mythology meets breathtaking views at the gateway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

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The Pillars of Hercules in Gibraltar mark the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Steeped in Greek mythology, they represent the limit of the known world, offering stunning views of two continents and a tangible link to ancient legends.

A brief summary to Pillars of Hercules

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the Pillars of Hercules viewpoint involves some walking, especially if approaching via the Mediterranean Steps.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar, the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, and the African coastline.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as clear days offer the best visibility for seeing the opposite shore of Africa.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gibraltar Harbour, take the No. 2 bus towards the Upper Rock. The bus fare is approximately £2. Alight at the 'Pillars of Hercules' stop (Garrison Gym bus stop), followed by an uphill walk of 15-20 minutes to the destination. Exact change or a credit card is recommended for bus fare payment.

  • Walking

    From Gibraltar Harbour, walk east along Queensway for about 1.5 kilometers, then turn left onto Devil's Tower Road. Continue following signs for the Pillars of Hercules. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic views. Note that the final section involves walking on Engineer Road which has limited space to move over for taxi vans.

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Discover more about Pillars of Hercules

The Pillars of Hercules, a timeless landmark in Gibraltar, define the Strait of Gibraltar, the narrow passage connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. According to Greek mythology, these pillars were created by Hercules as a testament to his strength, marking the edge of the world accessible to ancient mariners. The northern pillar is the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, while the identity of the southern pillar remains debated, with Jebel Musa in Morocco and Monte Hacho in Ceuta as leading candidates. For centuries, the Pillars of Hercules have captured human imagination, symbolizing boundaries, exploration, and the limits of the known world. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed the pillars represented the edge of civilization, beyond which lay only chaos. This concept evolved during the Age of Exploration when the Spanish boldly adopted the motto "Plus Ultra" (Further Beyond), signifying humanity's quest to explore the unknown. Today, the Pillars of Hercules continue to draw visitors from around the globe, offering a unique blend of history, mythology, and natural beauty. From the dedicated viewpoint along Mediterranean Steps, one can witness the meeting of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, and on clear days, see across to the Atlas Mountains in North Africa. The site provides a tangible connection to the legends of Hercules and the strategic importance of the Strait of Gibraltar throughout history.

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