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Southport Gates: A Passage Through Time

Explore Gibraltar's Southport Gates: a historic trio within the Charles V Wall, revealing centuries of strategic defense and cultural identity.

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The Southport Gates in Gibraltar are a trio of historic city gates within the Charles V Wall, showcasing centuries of defensive architecture. They offer a glimpse into Gibraltar's past, from Spanish fortifications to British sovereignty.

A brief summary to Southport Gates

  • Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the area is ideal for walking and exploring the surrounding historical sites.
  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and stories behind the Southport Gates.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Main Street, head south towards the end of the street. The Referendum Gate provides access to Main Street. Continue walking straight; the other two Southport Gates will be directly in front of you on Trafalgar Road.

  • Public Transport

    Take any bus that stops along Main Street. Alight near the end of Main Street, close to the Gibraltar Botanical Gardens. The Southport Gates are a short walk away, located where Main Street meets Trafalgar Road. Single tickets cost approximately £1.60 - £1.80.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. Request a ride to the Southport Gates at the southern end of Main Street, near Trafalgar Cemetery. A short taxi ride from the city center will typically cost around £5-£7.

Unlock the Best of Southport Gates

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Discover more about Southport Gates

The Southport Gates stand as a powerful reminder of Gibraltar's layered history and strategic importance. Located in the Charles V Wall, these three gates aren't just an entrance, but a journey through time. The oldest, the Southport Gate (also known as Africa Gate), dates back to 1552 and bears the Royal Arms of Charles V, marking the Spanish influence. Constructed by Italian engineer Giovanni Battista Calvi, it was a key part of the city's defenses against Barbary pirates. As you move through the gates, you encounter the "New" Southport Gate, built in 1883 during Queen Victoria's reign. This gate was added to ease traffic flow and is adorned with the coat of arms of both Queen Victoria and the Governor of Gibraltar at the time, General Sir John Miller Adye. Finally, the widest of the three, the Referendum Gate, commemorates the 1967 referendum in which Gibraltarians voted to remain under British rule. Built in 1967, it symbolizes Gibraltar's choice and identity. Located near Trafalgar Cemetery, initially known as Southport Ditch Cemetery, and between the South and Flat Bastions, the gates are surrounded by historical landmarks. Walking through them connects you to the sieges, wars, and the everyday life of Gibraltar throughout the ages. Today, Southport Gates serve as a reminder of Gibraltar's past and its continued importance.

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