Gibraltar
Climb your way up the rock and walk alongside the Barbary macaques
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern coast of Spain, at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. It is a small, densely populated territory with an area of just 6.7 square kilometers, and a population of around 34,000 people.
The territory is dominated by a limestone ridge, known as the Rock of Gibraltar, which rises to a height of 426 meters. The rock is home to a colony of Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe.
Gibraltar has a strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean, and its port is one of the busiest in the region. The territory has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neanderthals. It has been ruled by various powers over the centuries. This includes the Moors, the Spanish, and the British, who have held it since 1704. Despite its small size, Gibraltar has a diverse economy, with industries including tourism, shipping, financial services, and online gambling. The territory is also known for its tax-friendly environment and has become a popular destination for international companies looking to establish a presence in Europe.
When in Gibraltar, I propose you visit:
- Visit the Rock of Gibraltar: The iconic limestone ridge dominates the territory and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can hike to the top or take a cable car.
- Explore the caves: Gibraltar is home to a series of natural caves, including St. Michael’s Cave, which features dramatic stalactites and stalagmites.
- See the monkeys: The Barbary macaques are one of the territory’s main attractions, and you can see them up close at the Apes Den or on the rock itself.
- Visit the Gibraltar Museum: Learn about the territory’s history, culture, and natural environment at this small but informative museum.
- Take a stroll around the marina: Gibraltar’s marina is a popular spot for yachts and offers plenty of restaurants and bars with sea views.
- Shop on Main Street: The pedestrianized Main Street is lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs to designer clothes.
- Visit the Moorish Castle: This 14th-century fortress offers a glimpse into Gibraltar’s medieval past.
- Go on a dolphin watching tour: The waters around Gibraltar are home to several species of dolphins, and you can take a boat tour to see them up close.
- Visit Europa Point: Gibraltar’s southernmost point offers panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the coast of Africa.
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A bit of history of the famous apes
When you visit the Rock of Gibraltar, the Barbary macaques, also known as the Gibraltar monkeys, cannot be missed! These monkeys are a unique population of primates that have been living on the Rock of Gibraltar for hundreds of years. Their exact origin is unclear, but it’s believed that they may have been brought to Gibraltar by the Moors. They ruled the territory between the 8th and 15th centuries.
According to legend, the presence of the macaques on the Rock of Gibraltar is linked to the territory’s status as a British Overseas Territory. The story goes that as long as the monkeys remain on the rock, the territory will remain under British rule. While this is just a legend, it has helped to elevate the status of the macaques as a symbol of Gibraltar.
Over the centuries, the macaque population on Gibraltar has faced numerous challenges. Think about habitat loss, disease, and human persecution. At one point, the population had dwindled to just a handful of individuals, but conservation efforts have helped to stabilize the population. Nowadays this is around 200 individuals.
Today, the macaques are even protected by law, and it’s illegal to harm or feed them. Do have take amazing pictures of them like here 😉
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Accomodation in Gibraltar
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Useful information
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Go up the rock for £10. A tour of about 3h should cost you around £30 in total.
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Alcohol and cigarettes are cheaper because they are tax-free! Don't forget
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Weather conditions in Gibraltar
Gibraltar has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. When you visit the rock of Gibraltar, decide when you want to go with the help of this overview of the weather conditions:
- Winter (December – February): Average temperatures between 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F), with occasional rainfall and some windy days.
- Spring (March – May): Average temperatures during this period range from 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F), with occasional rainfall.
- Summer (June – August): Average temperatures during this period range from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F), with long, sunny days and very little rainfall.
- Autumn (September – November): Average temperatures during this period range from 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F), with mild, sunny days.
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