Gibraltar has maintained its important defensive role throughout history. Thanks to its position protruding down into the sea, it played a vital part in guarding the maritime passage east and west through the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean.
It was over a period of 400 years from the 11th century that Gibraltar transformed from a settlement into a fortress of defence due to the building work of the occupying Moors. The castle complex comprised a number of buildings, gates and fortified walls stretching over a large area from the hillside all the way down to Casemates Square almost to the sea. The Tower of Homage and the Gate House are now two of the remaining features and the former is still an impressive sight, visible thanks to its striking square structure and its prominent and strategic position up on the hill. It has impressed those approaching from the mainland for centuries. You can access the castle from the northern end of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve where it sits just below the entrance to the Great Siege Tunnels.
Views from the top of the Rock Nature Reserve are unmissable and if you don't want to venture up via the Mediterranean steps (a rather steep walk to the top), which takes you past a number of Gibraltar's other attractions, then there is always the Cable Car. The base station of which is alongside the Alameda Botanical Gardens and it will take you to the top of the Rock in no time at all. There you will find the famous Barbary macaque monkeys and a pleasant walk to St. Michael's Cave. If you have an entrance ticket to the Nature Reserve you will have access to the castle as well as a number of the other historic attractions, and these are generally open daily.
Take a look at the website to find out about Gibraltar's various attractions.
And the quick-look map will help you plan a visit.
If you want to discover more in the area, we've got a fantastic place to stay in the Costa del Sol. Click the link below to have a look.
