Background

Moorish Castle: A Gibraltar Landmark

Explore Gibraltar's Moorish Castle: a historic fortress with stunning views, showcasing centuries of Iberian Peninsula history.

4.1

The Moorish Castle in Gibraltar, dating back to the 8th century, is a medieval fortification showcasing Moorish architecture and offering panoramic views. Explore its towers, walls, and museum to delve into Gibraltar's diverse history.

A brief summary to Moorish Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds have uneven surfaces and steep areas.
  • Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience and better lighting for photos.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the Upper Rock Nature Reserve to see more of Gibraltar's natural beauty.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Casemates Square, walk north along Main Street. Continue past the Landport Gate, the traditional entrance to the city. Follow Willis's Road uphill; the Moorish Castle will be on your right. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Note that the route involves a steep incline.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Route 1 from the city center to the Willis's Road Terminus, the last stop on the route. From the terminus, the Moorish Castle is a short walk away. Bus fare is £1.80 for a single journey. A day pass costs £2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar, including at the airport, border, and Casemates Square. A taxi ride from the city center to the Moorish Castle typically costs between £10 and £15, depending on traffic and the starting location. Ensure the driver is aware of your destination.

Unlock the Best of Moorish Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle, a prominent historical landmark in Gibraltar, stands as a testament to the region's rich and diverse past. Construction of the castle began in the 8th century AD, possibly around 711 AD, marking the start of Moorish rule in the Iberian Peninsula. While the exact date of completion remains unrecorded, the castle's strategic importance quickly became evident. Initially serving as a defensive stronghold, the Moorish Castle played a crucial role in protecting Gibraltar and controlling access to the Mediterranean Sea. Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous expansions and modifications, reflecting the influences of various ruling powers, including Moorish, Spanish, and British. The most conspicuous remaining parts of the Castle are the upper tower, or Tower of Homage, together with various terraces and battlements below it, and the massive Gate House, with its cupola roof. Today, visitors can explore the castle's intriguing features, including the Tower of Homage, which offers panoramic views of Gibraltar and the surrounding area. The Gatehouse and its fortified walls provide insights into the fortress's defensive capabilities. Within the castle complex, a small museum showcases the castle's history, from its Moorish origins to its later transformations. The courtyard of the Moorish Castle served as a prison until 2010. A visit to the Moorish Castle offers a captivating glimpse into Gibraltar's vibrant and multicultural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Moorish Castle

Popular Hotels near Moorish Castle

Select Currency