Fondly referred to as 'The Rock', the limestone monolith that dominates Gibraltar is a fascinating geological feature marking the entrance to the Mediterranean, but its cultural significance is just as intriguing. A British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar is a slice of Britain bathed in the warmth of Southern Europe.
Its striking visuals, remarkable limestone caves, and Europe’s only wild monkey population are among the curiosities that have turned Gibraltar into a unique travel destination.
But for curious Brits, that uniqueness is set within startlingly familiar surroundings. From the Morrisons supermarket and the branch of famous retailer Marks & Spencer to the iconic red telephone boxes, Gibraltar’s central area is replete with British touches.
The limestone promontory may be relatively small, but it has a big history of power struggles thanks to its strategic position guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean.
The Rock passed through Moorish and Spanish hands before the 1704 Anglo-Dutch capture during the War of the Spanish Succession. After years of uncertainty, Spain ceded it to Britain in the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht, officially marking the start of its British sovereignty.
Gibraltarians, through referendums, have overwhelmingly voiced their wish to remain British.
Most recently, Brexit has caused a crisis of governance in the British Overseas Territory. Unsurprisingly, given the proximity to mainland Spain, the people of Gibraltar voted overwhelmingly to remain in the European Union.
But the overall leave vote and subsequent exit of the United Kingdom from EU membership has thrown Gibraltar into uncertainty. Large numbers of commuters cross the border with Spain every day, and longer queues have become commonplace since the change. According to the Gibraltar Chronicle, Gibraltar has “still not obtained a safe and beneficial permanent agreement with the EU.”
Exploring ‘The Rock’ itself is the primary goal of most visitors to Gibraltar. To do so, you’ll need a Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket ($18), available from official tour operators and at entry points to the upper rock. The ticket allows entry into all sites within the reserve for the whole day, including St Michael’s Cave.
The Gibraltar Cable Car ($19 return) offers a swift 6-minute ascent to its top station, 1,350 feet above sea level, providing unbeatable panoramic views of two continents, three countries, and two bodies of water.
Located near Alameda Gardens at Main Street's southern end, this aerial tramway takes passengers to the Ape's Den (for part of the year only) and on to the Rock's peak. At the summit, visitors can explore terraces, a café, and a restaurant with a view.
Combined tickets including the return journey on the cable
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