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Queen's Gate: A Portal to Gibraltar's Past

Discover Queen's Gate in Gibraltar: Where history meets stunning views and playful Barbary macaques!

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Queen's Gate, a historic city gate in Gibraltar, offers a glimpse into the territory's rich military past. Built in 1790, it stands as a testament to Gibraltar's strategic importance and now serves as a popular tourist attraction, particularly known for its resident Barbary macaques.

A brief summary to Queen's Gate

  • 4MJ2+VH3, Gibraltar, GI

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and a quieter experience.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of nearby historical sites such as the Great Siege Tunnels and St. Michael's Cave to enrich your understanding of Gibraltar's history.
  • Be mindful of the Barbary macaques; keep your belongings secure, as they are known to be curious and opportunistic.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the area around Queen's Gate is ideal for walking and exploring the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Casemates Square, head towards the main exit where the large stone archway is located. Exit the square and continue straight ahead onto Main Street. Walk along Main Street for approximately 5 minutes. As you reach the intersection at the end of Main Street, turn left onto the road that leads towards the military base. After approximately 5 minutes, you will see a sign indicating Queen's Gate on your right. The entrance is marked, and you can enter the area, known for its historical significance. This walk is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Gibraltar Harbour, take a local bus towards the town center. Alight at the Main Street stop and transfer to bus number 3, heading towards 'South District'. Get off at the 'Queen's Road' stop. From there, it is a short walk along Queen's Road to reach Queen's Gate. The bus fare is approximately £1.50.

  • Taxi

    From the Gibraltar International Airport, a taxi ride to Queen's Gate will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is around £13.60, with a base fare of £3.60 and £2.00 per kilometer. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal.

  • Driving

    If driving from Eastern Beach, head west on the A1. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout. Take the first exit onto Devil's Tower Road. Follow this road until you see signs for Queen's Gate. Turn right onto Queen's Road and continue until you reach Queen's Gate. Note that parking near Queen's Gate is limited. Parking fees vary, with open-air car parks available near the Cable Car station and on Queensway.

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Discover more about Queen's Gate

Queen's Gate is more than just an entrance; it's a journey into Gibraltar's compelling history. Constructed around 1790 by breaching the Charles V Wall, which dates back to 1540, the gate has witnessed centuries of change and strategic importance. It served as a crucial access point to the Gibraltar fortress, especially during conflicts like the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783). Today, Queen's Gate provides visitors with a unique blend of historical significance and vibrant local culture. As you approach Queen's Gate, you're greeted by well-preserved features and stunning views of Gibraltar. The gate is strategically aligned with Main Street, connecting it to the heart of the town. The area surrounding Queen's Gate is teeming with shops and cafes, offering a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and reflect on the territory's past. The gate also marks the start of Inglis Way, a walk within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Just above the gate lies Prince Ferdinand's Battery, now known as Ape's Den, home to Gibraltar's famous Barbary macaques. These wild monkeys add a unique charm to the location, making it a favorite among tourists. During World War II, Queen's Gate Battery was equipped with two 6-inch guns, capable of firing over 6,000 yards (5,500 m), further highlighting the area's military importance. Today, the gate stands as a reminder of Gibraltar's strategic past, offering visitors a chance to explore its historical landmarks and natural beauty.

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