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The Rock of Gibraltar: A Limestone Icon

Explore the iconic Rock of Gibraltar: History, nature, stunning views, and the famous Barbary macaques await!

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The Rock of Gibraltar, a towering limestone promontory, marks a strategic gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Its rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning views make it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Rock of Gibraltar

  • Gibraltar, GI

Local tips

  • Purchase a Nature Reserve ticket to access most attractions on the Rock, including St. Michael's Cave and the Apes' Den.
  • Consider taking the cable car up and walking down to enjoy the views and attractions at your own pace.
  • Be cautious around the Barbary macaques; they are wild animals and should not be fed or touched.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the Rock involves a lot of walking on steep terrain.
  • Check cruise ship schedules to avoid peak tourist times, especially during the summer.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Casemates Square, the main square in Gibraltar, walk south along Main Street. Turn left onto Red Sands Road, following signs for the Cable Car. The Cable Car base station is a 15-20 minute walk and serves as an entry point to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. A Nature Reserve ticket is required for entry, costing £30 for adults. Alternatively, continue past the Cable Car station to explore the Alameda Botanical Gardens for free.

  • Public Transport

    From the Gibraltar border or the airport, take Citibus route 5 to the city center. From there, follow the walking directions to the Cable Car. A single bus ticket costs £1.60-£1.80. A day ticket is £2.50. Consider a Gibraltar Pass for free transport and access to attractions.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs approximately £20. A taxi tour of the Rock, including entry to the Nature Reserve, can be arranged for a fixed price. Standard taxi fares start at £3.60, with each kilometer costing £2.00. Be sure to agree on a price before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Rock of Gibraltar

The Rock of Gibraltar, also known as the Upper Rock, is a monolithic limestone promontory that dominates the landscape. Rising to 426 meters (1,398 feet), it stands as a sentinel guarding the Strait of Gibraltar. Formed millions of years ago from the shells of sea creatures, the Rock's geological history is as captivating as its cultural significance. Throughout history, the Rock has been a coveted strategic point. Known to the Romans as Mons Calpe, it formed one of the Pillars of Hercules, marking the edge of the known world. The Moors, led by Tariq ibn-Ziyad, established a settlement in 711 AD, giving the Rock its current name, derived from 'Jebel Tarik' (Tarik's Mountain). For over 700 years, the Moors controlled Gibraltar, leaving behind a lasting architectural legacy, including the Moorish Castle. In 1704, the British captured Gibraltar during the War of the Spanish Succession, and it has remained under British rule ever since. The Rock played a crucial role in World War II, serving as a heavily fortified base. Tunnels were expanded, and the civilian population was evacuated to prepare for a potential German attack. Today, visitors can explore these tunnels and learn about Gibraltar's military past. The Upper Rock Nature Reserve covers much of the Rock's upper area, protecting diverse flora and fauna. The most famous residents are the Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe. St. Michael's Cave, a stunning natural grotto adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, is another popular attraction. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views from the Skywalk and the Windsor Suspension Bridge. The Rock of Gibraltar offers a unique blend of history, nature, and stunning scenery. Whether you're exploring ancient caves, encountering playful monkeys, or simply soaking in the views, a visit to the Rock is an unforgettable experience.

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