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Nelson's Anchorage: A Maritime Legacy

Discover Gibraltar's maritime history at Nelson's Anchorage, where stunning views meet the legacy of Admiral Nelson and the imposing 100-Ton Gun.

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Nelson's Anchorage in Gibraltar marks the historic site where Admiral Nelson's fleet anchored and where his body was allegedly brought ashore after the Battle of Trafalgar. Today, it offers stunning views, historical plaques, and the imposing 100-Ton Gun, a relic of Victorian military technology.

A brief summary to Nelson's Anchorage

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy while taking in the stunning views of the harbor.
  • Look for the historical plaques that provide fascinating insights into the site's significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Camp Bay, walk along Avenida de la República towards the coast. Continue until you reach the junction for the cable car station, then turn left. Follow the signs for Nelson's Anchorage, a short walk along the path. The walk offers scenic views of the coastline.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus route 3 from the city center towards Europa Point. Get off near the cable car station and walk towards the coast, following signs for Nelson's Anchorage. Bus fares are typically around £2.20 for a single journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A taxi from the city center to Nelson's Anchorage will cost approximately £10-£15. Taxi ranks are located at the airport, Casemates Square, and other central locations.

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Discover more about Nelson's Anchorage

Nelson's Anchorage, nestled at Gibraltar's southwestern end, is a poignant reminder of the territory's rich maritime past. This location commemorates the spot where Admiral Horatio Nelson's fleet anchored, playing a crucial role in naval history. Legend has it that after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, HMS Victory was towed to nearby Rosia Bay, and Nelson's body was brought ashore here, preserved in a barrel of alcohol (though some say it was rum). Today, visitors can explore the area and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the iconic Rock of Gibraltar. Informative plaques detail the naval engagements that took place here, offering a tangible connection to the past. The serene ambiance provides a peaceful escape, ideal for leisurely walks and reflection. A key attraction is the Napier of Magdala Battery, home to the impressive 100-Ton Gun. This Victorian supergun, manufactured in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1870, is one of only two remaining in the world. Designed to protect the entrances to the commercial harbor and Royal Naval Dockyard, the gun never saw action but stands as a fascinating monument to 19th-century artillery. Although the original gun split during practice firing and was replaced, it remains a powerful symbol of Gibraltar's strategic importance.

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