Gibraltar

Quick Facts

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Capital

Gibraltar

Population

27,000

Government

Overseas territory of the UK

Religions

Christianity (Catholic, Protestant), Islam

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Portugese

Calling Code

+350

Nationality

Gibraltarian

Local name

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Introduction

Gibraltar

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Gibraltar, a huge rock of sand and limestone at the very southern tip of Spain, has always been a strategic location. In the eighth century, the Islamic invasion of Iberia began when Muslims landed on the rock and headed inland from there. A millennium later, the British wrestled with the Spaniards over the land, eventually gaining full control. Now, almost three centuries later, Gibraltar remains under British sovereignty: it is an Overseas Territory of the UK.

It is a fascinating place, not only for its history. Gibraltarians are a modern mix of Spanish, Jewish, British and Genoese descendency, though they firmly regard themselves as British. Reminders of past conflict can be found around Gibraltar, whether in the museum or in the town center. Though Gibraltar may not be worth much more than a week's visit, any trip to the Iberian Penninsula is incomplete without a journey to Gibraltar.

Brief History

Geography

Residential Areas

• East Side
• Northern District
• Reclamation Areas
• Sandpits Area
• Town Area
• Upper Town

Sights and Activities

Barbary Macaques

Gibraltar

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One of the main sights in Gibraltar is the Barbary Macaques, a monkey. These monkey's have been on the rock long before the British took control. Some say they have been there for millions of years. Other say the Moors brought them from Africa as pets, some people even think they came from underground tunnels linking the rock back to Africa. According to local legend as long as the Barbary Macaques exist the British will maintain control of the rock. During World War II the population dwindled to only seven and Sir Winston Churchill ordered that their numbers grow at any costs. From the 1950s on the government has taken strict control of the Barbary Macaques population and health, including identification tags and a yearly census. Even though the Barbary Macaques have become used to humans remember it is illegal to feed them and the fine is £500.

Moorish Castle

The Moors controlled Gibraltar for a total of 710 years. During their first reign they built the original castle, most likely in the 8th century. This original castle was destroyed when Spain took back Gibraltar in 1309. When the Moors re-conquered Gibraltar in 1350 they rebuilt a new castle. When Spain took it back again in 1462 the Tower of Homage was saved, which was one of the tallest towers of the Islamic period in the Iberian Peninsula. Today the castle and the tower are two very popular tourist sights.

St. Michael's Cave

St. Michael's Cave has been a tourist sight since Roman times. The cave is in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve and is quite stunning. The Cathedral Cave, which is the largest, is over 24 km (15 m) long under the straits. There are countless chambers and caves to explore and some were even prepared to be used as hospital during World War II, even though they were never used for that purpose. The Cathedral Cave is now used as an auditorium, which holds many popular events.

Other Sights and Activities

• Main Street - Shop on this amazing street that is a blend of Genoese, Portuguese, Spanish, Moorish and British styles.
• Grande Casemates Square - At the end of Main Street this square is the centre of the rock's nightlife having many nightclubs, pubs and restaurants.
• Gibraltar Siege Tunnels
• 100 Ton Gun - Check out this massive cannon.
• Europa Point - Is the southern most tip of Gibraltar and is a very scenic spot.
• Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque - Located on the southern tip of the rock and was a gift from King Fahd of Saudi Arabia is a very nice mosque.
• Upper Rock Nature Reserve - Visit this protected area which is 40% of the territory.

Events and Festivals

Weather

Getting there

By Plane

Gibraltar International airport has a limited number of flights, for example with Iberia to Madrid and with Monarch Airlines to London Luton. easyJet is planning to fly to and from London Gatwick. Air Malta has seasonal chartered flights to and from Malta.

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Car

Many people who come to Gibraltar have their own car or rented a car in Spain. For renting cars in Spain, check the Spain article. There are few roads but all are tarred.

By Bus

Bus number 3 runs between the border, the town and on to Europa Point. Buses are run by the Gibraltar Bus Company
and there are several lines more, including number 2, 4 and 9.
Taxis are widely available for short trips as well as longer organised tours.

By Foot

Gibraltar is about 7 square kilometers big and most things can be seen by foot as well. Some parts might be steep though, so an average physical condition is the least you need.

By Cablecar

The Cable Car will take you to the top of the Rock via the middle station. From here you can enjoy St. Michael's Cave and the Apes' Den. A round trip costs 9 euros for adults, less for children.

Red Tape

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