Military Heritage
Walk through the impressive Great Siege Tunnels that were excavated by the forerunners of the Royal Engineers in the late 18th century or marvel at the graffiti from this time at the City Under Siege exhibition.
Gibraltar has been of strategic importance throughout its long military history. The Rock has endured many sieges, the most famous being the Great Siege of 1783. Visitors can appreciate the great feat of engineering achieved at the Great Siege Tunnels, as indeed in all the other tunnels and chambers that have been dug in the Rock.
The Military Heritage Centre is housed in one of the many Batteries found in the Rock. The Battery still houses the original hoists used to arm the gun, as well as the shells and other artefacts used in those days. The armoury displays a selection of weapons used by the British Army in Gibraltar and there are also relics dating from the Great Siege of 1783 to the present day.
In the back chamber, known as the Memorial Chamber, visitors have the opportunity to honour and remember all those men and women who have, over the ages dedicated themselves to the service of the Nation in the Armed Forces. You will find the Roll Call of all the Regiments that have served in Gibraltar since 1704 together with the ensigns of the Senior Service and the Royal Air Force, all of whom have contributed to the peace and prosperity that we enjoy today.
The Trafalgar Cemetery
Situated just south of the City Walls, was used as Gibraltar’s military cemetery in the early 19th century. Although the name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, only two of those buried there actually died of wounds suffered at the battle (1805). A ceremony is held here every year to commemorate Lord Nelson’s victory.
Nelson’s Anchorage
At Nelson’s Anchorage there are superb views across the Strait and of Rosia Bay. Also worth visiting is the impressive 100 ton gun installed in the early 19th century but never fired in anger.
By Rosia Bay stands Napier of Magdala Battery (1884), home of Gibraltar’s 100-ton gun. Manufactured in 1870, four were originally in existence, two came to Gibraltar and the others were sent to Malta. This is only the one remaining on the Rock. The other was situated at Victoria Battery, which is where the City Fire Station is today.
Parson's Lodge
The imposing Parson’s Lodge, one of Gibraltar’s most important fortifications, is a must for anyone interested in military history.
Parson’s Lodge is a mini Gibraltar - a narrow limestone dorsal, running North-South, laced with a labyrinth of underground tunnels and surmounted by a seemingly impregnable battery, which has witnessed the development of coast artillery over the last three centuries.
Parson’s Lodge is operated by the Gibraltar Heritage Trust. For more information please visit www.gibraltar.gi/heritage
Gibraltar War MemorialThis is situated on the Line Wall Boulevard. It was unveiled by the then Governor in 1923 There are two Russian guns close by which were brought to Gibraltar in 1858 after having been captured during the Crimean War.
For further information on Military heritage in Gibraltar please contact:
| The Gibraltar Tourist Board | |
| Duke of Kent House Cathedral Square Gibraltar |
|
 (+ 350) 200 74950 |
 (+ 350) 200 74943 |
 not available |
|
 tourism@gibraltar.gi |
|
Copyright (C) by Gibraltar Government 2005
