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Rock of Gibraltar: A Legendary Landmark

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

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The Rock of Gibraltar, a towering limestone promontory, marks a strategic point at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. Rich in history and home to the famous Barbary macaques, it offers stunning views and a unique blend of cultures.

A brief summary to Rock of Gibraltar

  • Gibraltar, GI

Local tips

  • Purchase Nature Reserve tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
  • Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid long waits for the cable car.
  • Be aware of the Barbary macaques; do not feed them and secure your belongings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as exploring the Rock involves some uphill climbs.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions at the top of the Rock can change rapidly.
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Getting There

  • Cable Car

    The Gibraltar Cable Car provides a swift and scenic ascent to the Top Station. From the base station at Grand Parade, near Main Street, the ride takes approximately 6 minutes, ascending 412 meters. At the top, enjoy panoramic views, a café, and access to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. A round trip ticket including Nature Reserve access costs £49.00 for adults and £31.00 for children (4-11 years). Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues.

  • Walking

    For a more challenging but rewarding experience, access the Upper Rock Nature Reserve on foot. There are three main entry points: Jews' Gate, Moorish Castle, and Devil's Gap. A Nature Reserve ticket is required to access the various attractions and costs £30. Be prepared for steep inclines and steps; wear appropriate footwear and bring water.

  • Taxi

    Taxis offer tours of the Upper Rock, typically lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours. These tours often include key sites such as St Michael's Cave, the Apes' Den, and the Great Siege Tunnels. The cost is approximately £35 per person, including the Nature Reserve entry fee. Taxis can be hired from the frontier, the Gibraltar Coach Terminus, Casemates Square, or the Cruise Terminal.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses connect various points in Gibraltar with the vicinity of the Rock. However, buses do not directly access the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Route 1 is the closest, stopping near the Moorish Castle entrance. From the bus stop, it's an uphill walk to the Nature Reserve. A single bus fare is £1.80, and a day ticket is £2.50.

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Discover more about Rock of Gibraltar

The Rock of Gibraltar, a majestic promontory of Jurassic limestone, has been shaped over millions of years by tectonic activity and the relentless forces of the sea and weather. Rising to 426 meters (1,398 feet), it stands as a sentinel guarding the Strait of Gibraltar, the narrow passage between Europe and Africa. Historically known as Mons Calpe to the Romans, one of the legendary Pillars of Hercules, the Rock has been a site of strategic importance and human habitation for millennia. Neanderthals inhabited its caves over 20,000 years ago, and Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors have all left their mark on this iconic landmark. In 711 AD, the Berber chieftain Tariq ibn-Ziyad landed here, initiating the Moorish conquest of Iberia, and giving the Rock its current name, derived from 'Jebel Tarik' (Tarik's Mountain). The Rock's complex tunnel system, expanded during the Great Siege of 1779-1783 and World War II, tells tales of military resilience. Today, visitors can explore these tunnels, as well as St. Michael's Cave, a stunning natural grotto used as an auditorium. The Upper Rock Nature Reserve is home to around 300 Barbary macaques, adding to the Rock's allure. The vistas from the summit are breathtaking, encompassing the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, and views of Spain and North Africa. Whether you ascend by cable car for panoramic views, explore the historic tunnels, or encounter the playful macaques, the Rock of Gibraltar offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

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