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Facts about Gibraltar

Gibraltar Tourist Information

  1. British Overseas Territory: Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It has been under British sovereignty since the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, which ended the War of Spanish Succession.

  2. The Rock of Gibraltar: Gibraltar is renowned for its iconic limestone rock formation, known as "The Rock." It rises 1,398 feet (426 meters) above sea level and is home to a network of caves and tunnels, including the famous St. Michael's Cave.

  3. Strategic Location: Gibraltar's strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea has made it historically important for military and naval purposes. The British Royal Navy has maintained a significant presence here over the years.

  4. Barbary Macaques: Gibraltar is the only place in Europe where you can find wild populations of Barbary macaques, also known as Barbary apes. These tailless monkeys are considered one of the top tourist attractions in Gibraltar.

  5. Multilingual Community: Gibraltar is a melting pot of cultures and languages. English is the official language, but many residents are bilingual in English and Spanish. Additionally, a significant number of Gibraltarians speak Llanito, a unique local dialect that combines elements of English and Spanish.

  6. Currency: Gibraltar has its own currency, the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), which is on par with the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Both currencies are widely accepted on the rock.

  7. Unique Airport Runway: The Gibraltar International Airport has one of the most unique runways in the world. It intersects with Winston Churchill Avenue, the main road that connects Gibraltar with Spain. When a plane lands or takes off, the road is closed to traffic, creating a truly remarkable sight.

  8. Underground Tunnels: Gibraltar has an extensive network of tunnels and underground chambers that were built for defensive purposes. The Great Siege Tunnels, for example, were dug during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783) and played a crucial role in its defense.

  9. Neanderthal History: Gibraltar is one of the significant sites for Neanderthal research. In 1848, a Neanderthal skull was discovered in Forbes' Quarry, making it one of the earliest recognized specimens of this hominid species.

  10. Tourism and Cruise Ships: Gibraltar is a popular tourist destination and a regular port of call for cruise ships in the Mediterranean. Visitors come to explore The Rock, enjoy tax-free shopping, and experience the unique blend of British and Mediterranean culture.

These are just a few of the many unique aspects of Gibraltar, making it a truly distinctive and intriguing place to visit and learn about.

  • Gibraltar Information