Gibraltar: Where Monkeys Rule and British Rock Reigns

Gibraltar, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is a British Overseas Territory that is known for its famous rock, its strategic location, and for the mischievous monkeys that roam its streets.

History and Geography

Gibraltar has a long and fascinating history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neanderthal era. Throughout history, it has been a contested territory, with various empires and nations vying for control. For centuries, Gibraltar was a vital strategic port, serving as a gateway to the Mediterranean and beyond.

The territory’s geographical location serves to create a unique blend of cultures and influences. The warm climate, bustling cosmopolitan streets, and stunning Mediterranean views make Gibraltar an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and fun.

The Rock of Gibraltar

The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the territory’s most iconic landmarks. This massive limestone promontory towers over the landscape, reaching a height of 1,398 feet. It is home to a network of natural caves and tunnels that have been used throughout history for military purposes and more recently as tourist attractions.

Legend has it that if the Barbary macaques that live on the rock ever leave, then the British will leave Gibraltar too. So, when visiting Gibraltar, don’t forget to hang onto your belongings and make nice with the monkeys.

A British Territory

Although technically located on the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is very much British. This means that visitors can enjoy fish and chips, British pubs, and even red phone boxes. You can also rest easy knowing that the locals speak English, so there’s no need to dust up on your Spanish.

Fun Facts

• Gibraltar gets its name from Arabic “Jabal Tariq,” which means “mountain of Tariq.”
• Despite being British, Gibraltar uses the euro as its currency.
• The airport runway intersects with a main road, which is closed each time a plane lands or takes off - now that’s one way to stop traffic!
• The territory is home to World War II-era tunnels that were once used as an alternate command center strategically placed to withstand a direct hit from a German bomb.

In conclusion, Gibraltar is undoubtedly a unique and quirky destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. And if nothing else, you need to go for the Instagram-worthy shot with the Barbary macaques. Trust us.