Gibraltar

I must confess that I have never holidayed in Gibraltar, it has just been a port of call on various cruises over the years - and we have wandered around, through the streets, in and out of the shops, and have over time seen some of its famous sights. Of course it all starts with The Rock! - you can't miss it - its over 425 metres high, its formed of monolithic limestone and it can be seen for miles. Legend has it that it was one of the Pillars of Hercules. It the sight for one of Gibraltars main attractions, St Michael’s Cave, which is actually a series of caves. As with much of Gibraltar St Michael' Cave has it place in history, in World War 2 it was prepared, though never used as, a hospital. Nowadays, because of its great acoustics, is a popular venue for concerts. And of course Gibraltar is famous for its resident Barbary macaque population. Currently there are about 300 monkeys - and when we visited, they were out in force climbing all over the trees, the tourists, the rocks and 'sharing' any food or objects which took their fancy! Entertaining, but a bit scary!! One of the 'star' attractions is the main shopping street, full of tax free shopping. In fact this is one of the main reasons that tourists travel to Gibraltar! The prices are very attractive and there is a pretty good selection of items to purchase. These shops interspersed with cafes and eateries can get very busy at times, but most would say the discounts justify the effort. Away from the shops, Gibraltar retains much of old British charm, like the Changing of the Guard, and memories of the past with her considerable fortifications including the Kings Bastion, and Prince Edwards Gate. Nelsons Anchorage and the Gibraltar Museum offer much information of times gone by. And then, there is the statue, pictured here, which we came across quite unexpectedly, which vividly depicts the periods of evacuation, endured, against their will by the women and children of Gibraltar. Thankfully this lovely bronze recalls their homecoming. It is a stunning piece of art. I regret not having the opportunity, thus far, to spend a lengthy in Gibraltar. I have a feeling it has much more to discover and enjoy - maybe next time?