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Pillars of Hercules: Gibraltar's Mythic Gateway

Witness the meeting of continents and oceans at this legendary site, steeped in mythology and offering breathtaking panoramic views.

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The Pillars of Hercules in Gibraltar mark the ancient boundary between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, steeped in Greek mythology and offering stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the African coast. These promontories, the Rock of Gibraltar and a peak in North Africa (either Jebel Musa or Monte Hacho), symbolize the edge of the known world and the meeting of two continents.

A brief summary to Pillars of Hercules

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the viewpoint involves some walking, especially if arriving by public transport.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the African coast.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as visibility can be affected by fog or haze.
  • Consider purchasing a GibraltarPass for access to multiple attractions, including the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Europa Road, follow Queen's Road uphill. The walk is steep in sections and takes approximately 15-20 minutes from the Garrison Gym bus stop. Follow signs for the Pillars of Hercules and the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus route 2 from the city center (Market Place) to the Garrison Gym bus stop on Europa Road. Alternatively, take bus route 7 to the Mount Alvernia Terminus, followed by a walk into the Nature Reserve. A single bus fare costs approximately £2.20. From the bus stops, follow walking directions to reach the Pillars.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from the airport, border, and Grand Casemates Square. A taxi ride from the city center to the Pillars of Hercules costs approximately £10-£15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Pillars of Hercules

The Pillars of Hercules stand as silent sentinels, framing the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar and marking a profound cultural and symbolic threshold between the known and the unknown. According to Greek mythology, Hercules, during his twelve labors, split a great mountain to create a passage between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, forming the two pillars that bear his name. These pillars were said to bear the warning “Non Plus Ultra” (“Nothing Further Beyond”), a cautionary phrase to seafarers. Today, the Pillars of Hercules viewpoint offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in this rich history and enjoy panoramic views. From this vantage point, one can witness the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, and on clear days, see across to the African coast. The site includes interpretive signage detailing the legend of Hercules, the geology of the region, and the strategic importance of the Strait. The Rock of Gibraltar, the northern pillar, is composed of Jurassic limestone and is home to various attractions, including St. Michael's Cave and the Barbary macaques. The southern pillar is either Jebel Musa in Morocco or Monte Hacho in Ceuta. The Pillars of Hercules continue to captivate, symbolizing the boundaries of exploration and the allure of the unknown.

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