Great Siege Tunnels — Attraction in Gibraltar

The Great Siege Tunnels of Gibraltar, also known as the Upper Galleries, are a fascinating part of Gibraltar’s history. They are a series of tunnels carved inside the northern end of the Rock of Gibraltar, dug out from solid limestone by the British during the Great Siege of Gibraltar in the late 18th century.

Here’s a brief overview of their history and significance:

Historical Background: The Great Siege of Gibraltar was an intense conflict that took place from July 1779 to February 1783 during the American Revolutionary War. It was an attempt by France and Spain to capture Gibraltar from Great Britain.

Construction: The tunnels were constructed to address a blind angle on the northeast side of the Rock, which could not be covered by existing gun batteries. The idea was to mount a gun on a spur of rock known as The Notch. Since there was no path due to the vertical cliff face, it was suggested to dig a tunnel to reach this point.

Design: The work was done mainly by hand, using sledgehammers, crowbars, and gunpowder blasts. The initial tunnel took thirteen men five weeks to dig a length of 82 feet (25 meters). To improve ventilation and reduce the fumes from blasting, a horizontal shaft was also created.

Today, the Great Siege Tunnels are partially open to the public and are controlled by the Gibraltar Tourist Board. They offer a glimpse into the military ingenuity of the past and are a popular attraction for visitors interested in history and military...

I had the incredible opportunity to explore the Great Siege Tunnels in Gibraltar, and it was nothing short of a mesmerizing experience. These tunnels, carved into the rock during the 18th century, are a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

The historical significance of this site is awe-inspiring. Walking through the labyrinthine tunnels, I couldn't help but imagine the bravery and resourcefulness of the soldiers who built and defended them during the Great Siege of Gibraltar. The audio-guided tour provided a wealth of information, making the history come alive with vivid details.

The views from the tunnels overlooking the bay are breathtaking. It's the perfect spot to capture some stunning photographs and take in the strategic importance of Gibraltar throughout history.

The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall experience. I highly recommend visiting the Great Siege Tunnels to anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure. It's a historical gem that shouldn't be missed when...

A series of tunnels located within the northern cliffs, excavated by the British military during the late 18th century Great Siege of Gibraltar by cutting through limestone. The Great Siege, which took place between 1779 and 1783, was an attempt by the combined forces of Spain and France to reclaim Gibraltar, but the British garrison successfully defended it throughout the siege. The excavation work was led by Sergeant Henry Ince and the Soldier Artificer Company, employing various techniques such as gunpowder blasting, heating the rock with fire followed by rapid cooling with water, and the use of quicklime. Initially, the tunnels began with a length of approximately 25 meters but were later expanded to a total length of around 1,200 meters. Inside the tunnels, visitors can see cannons, weapons, and dioramas depicting the lives of soldiers...