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Douglas's Cave: A Glimpse into Gibraltar's Past

Explore Douglas's Cave in Gibraltar, a historical landmark with intriguing origins and unique man-made features within a natural reserve.

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Douglas's Cave, nestled within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in Gibraltar, offers a unique blend of natural formations and historical intrigue. Once thought to be a natural cave, it's now considered a man-made structure possibly used during the Great Siege of Gibraltar and later in World War II.

A brief summary to Douglas's Cave

  • 1 Ohara's Rd, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain leading to and within the cave can be uneven.
  • Bring a light jacket, as temperatures inside the cave can be cooler.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From St. Michael's Cave, exit and follow the main path back towards the entrance area. Turn left, following the path around the cliffside until you reach a junction. Take the right fork, which leads towards Douglas's Cave. Continue straight, following signs for Douglas's Cave, located at 1 Ohara's Rd.

  • Public Transport

    Take the local bus Route no. 1 from Gibraltar City to the last stop near the Moorish Castle entrance, which is the closest to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. From there, follow the signs towards Douglas's Cave, keeping in mind that it's a considerable walk. Entry to the Nature Reserve is required. Bus fare: Approximately £2.20 for a single journey.

  • Taxi

    From Gibraltar city center, take a taxi to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, requesting to be dropped off as close as possible to Douglas's Cave. Be aware that taxi access to certain parts of the Upper Rock may be restricted. From the drop-off point, follow walking directions to the cave. Taxi fare: Approximately £20-£30 to the Upper Rock area.

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Discover more about Douglas's Cave

Douglas's Cave, situated on the southern end of the Rock of Gibraltar, presents a unique, if somewhat enigmatic, historical site. Located at the bottom of Douglas Path, within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, the cave is not a natural formation but rather a man-made structure. Its original purpose remains a mystery, though theories abound. First occupied during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783), it was re-occupied in 1940. Unusually, the cave is enclosed within a brick building and contains a single stone seat and the remains of a simple plaque. Some experts speculate it may have been used to store a high-powered searchlight during World War II. The dates 1789 and 1897 appear on a stone nearby; 1789 is the start of The Great Siege. The cave and the path leading to it are named after Captain William Douglas, who served in the 11th Regiment of Foot. Douglas was tasked with constructing paths on Gibraltar's southwestern slopes in 1789, embellishing them with rock-cut seats and poetic inscriptions. Inside the cave, the symbol or plaque above the seat remains ambiguous, showing a crown sustaining a medallion or jewel of sorts. The cave's tranquil ambiance and cool temperatures provide a refreshing retreat.

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