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Jews' Gate Cemetery: A Testament to Gibraltar's Jewish Heritage

Explore Gibraltar's Jewish heritage at the serene Jews' Gate Cemetery, a historical burial ground within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

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Nestled on Windmill Hill within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, Jews' Gate Cemetery offers a serene glimpse into Gibraltar's Jewish history. Established by 1746, it served as the primary Jewish burial ground until 1848 and is the final resting place for several of Gibraltar's Chief Rabbis. The cemetery's weathered tombstones and peaceful setting provide a poignant reminder of the community's enduring legacy.

A brief summary to Jews’ Gate Cemetery

  • Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

Local tips

  • The cemetery is located within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, so factor in time to see other attractions within the reserve.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Respect the solemn nature of the site by speaking quietly.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, the easiest way to reach Jews' Gate Cemetery is on foot. From the main entrance, follow the path towards the Apes' Den. Continue past the Apes' Den, following signs for Jews' Gate. The cemetery is a short distance from the main path. Note that entry to the Nature Reserve includes a fee.

  • Public Transport

    From central Gibraltar, take a bus towards the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Disembark at the stop closest to the entrance. From there, walk along the path leading to the Apes' Den and then continue to Jews' Gate Cemetery. Bus fares are approximately £1.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gibraltar. A taxi from the airport to the Jews' Gate Cemetery area will cost approximately £20. From the taxi drop-off point near the entrance to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, follow the walking directions. Note that entry to the Nature Reserve includes a fee.

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Discover more about Jews’ Gate Cemetery

Jews' Gate Cemetery, also known as Windmill Hill Cemetery, is a historical Jewish burial ground located on Windmill Hill, near the southern entrance to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve in Gibraltar. The cemetery holds the earliest known Jewish burials in Gibraltar, dating back to 1746. It remained in use until 1848, after which burials were moved to a new cemetery. The cemetery's location is significant, situated along Queen's Road, close to the Pillars of Hercules monument. The tombstones are primarily laid out in the Sephardic style, reflecting the origins of many of Gibraltar's Jewish inhabitants. A raised pathway allows visitors to explore the site while protecting the graves. Within the cemetery, a stone wall encloses the burial sites of several of Gibraltar's Judges of Religious Law. Notable figures buried here include Chief Rabbi Solomon Abudarham, who inaugurated the Flemish Synagogue in the early 19th century. Over time, the inscriptions on many of the limestone tombstones have become difficult to read due to weathering. Some of the best-preserved graves were once covered by peat and mud. The Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society monitors the cemetery's ecology, as it serves as a nesting ground for the Barbary partridge. For this reason, the vegetation is allowed to grow freely during winter and spring months until after nesting season. The cemetery was officially rededicated on May 31, 2015, after extensive cleanup and restoration efforts. The rededication ceremony was attended by the UK's Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and other dignitaries.

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