Whether on a one day sight-seeing tour or a week-long stay, Gibraltar offers a great deal to see. Get the tax-free shopping over and done with then get your camera out. There are few visitors to the rock that don't undertake the rock tour. The best way to do this is take one of the organised tours or one of the special taxis. There are many things to see on the tour including the famous rock apes.

The Great Siege Tunnels
Constructed in the sieges of the 18th century, a network of tunnels into the rock to allow the mounting of a prototype gun (the first ever to be able to fire downwards). The tunnels you can visit are actually part of a network of more than 32 miles of tunnel.

St. Michael's Cave
A vast underground cavern with an auditorium at the base which is now used to hold concerts. Coloured lighting is used to great effect in the cave and don't miss the giant cross-section of a stalagmite that shows the history of its growth.

 

The Ape's Den
See the Barbary Apes, first introduced to the rock in the 18th century. They are one of the major symbols of Gibraltar.

 
The Moorish Castle
Located high on the rock and dating back to the 11th century. The tower is all that remains and can be seen for miles. The Union Jack here flies high over Gibraltar. It is possible to view the interior as part of the rock tour.
 
 
 
 
The Cathedral of St.Mary the Crowned
Found in the middle of Main Street, it was converted from a Moorish Mosque in 1462 when the Moors were driven from the rock. It had a new frontage built in 1810.
 
The Convent
It was formerly a monastery and now the Governor's residence was constructed in the early 1500's and became the residence of the senior military officer in December 1704. The Friars were expelled in 1712. The main facade was remodelled in the 19th century in Gothic style. The convent is not open to the public but the adjoining King's Chapel is well worth a visit and has many plaques and tombstones of interest.
Opposite the Convent are two beautiful brass canons, pictured right.
 
 
  Casemate's Square
At the end of Main Street is a large open space where you can sit and enjoy the sun and the atmosphere of a busy city. There are shops around the square and a newly opened arcade. The square was once the site for public executions. The gates to the square were built in 1727,1859 and 1884. From this square you can take a taxi around the rock nature reserve or explore the unique crystal factory where you can watch the glass being blown. Within the square is a gun on display, known as the Koehler Gun, invented here in 1728 during the great siege. You will also find the new tourist office here.
     
City Hall
Formerly the residence of a rich local merchant. Badly redesigned over the years, losing the classic Regency lines. The square in front has interesting mosaics of regimental emblems of former Gibraltar regiments.
   
     
The American War Memorial
It was built into the Line Wall during the years 1932 and 1933 to commemorate the achievements of the U.S. and Royal Navies during W.WI. It was designed by Dr.Paul Cret of Philladelphia.
   

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