Gibraltar’s history is rich and complex, shaped by thousands of years of conquests, struggles, and cultural exchanges. The ebb and flow of peoples and ideas has left traces that are still visible today. Though small in size, Gibraltar has played a major strategic role in the relationship between Europe and Africa and in controlling access to the Mediterranean. The position of Gibraltar has made it one of the most fought-over places in Europe, and it has been the site of fourteen recorded sieges.
Follow the timeline below to discover the key events in the history of this iconic Rock.
Early Human Presence (30,000 BC)
The earliest human presence in Gibraltar dates back over 30,000 years ago. Fossils and artefacts found in the region’s caves provide evidence of Neanderthal habitation. Gorham’s Cave, in particular, has yielded significant findings, showing that Gibraltar was one of the last places of habitation for Neanderthals before their extinction. These discoveries offer a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of early human populations.
The Phoenicians and Carthaginians (1000 BC)
The Phoenicians were among the first great seafaring people to navigate the waters around the Rock. They used Gibraltar as a navigational landmark during their trading expeditions throughout the Mediterranean. Later, the Carthaginians, rivals of Rome, also controlled this strategic region. The Strait of Gibraltar became a crucial gateway to the Atlantic and the rich trade routes of the western world.
Roman Rule (146 BC – 5th Century AD)
After the fall of Carthage, Gibraltar came under the control of the Roman Empire. Although not a major stronghold during Roman times, the Rock was strategically important for maritime trade routes. The Romans established trade links and military garrisons throughout the region, making Gibraltar a key point for exchanges between the western provinces of the Mediterranean and North Africa. The Romans named the Rock Mons Calpe and regarded it as one of the twin Pillars of Hercules. The name is derived from the Phoenician word Kalph, meaning “hollowed out”, and likely refers to the abundance of caves in the limestone cliffs.
Visigoth and Byzantine Invasions (5th – 7th Century)
Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, Gibraltar was invaded by the Visigoths, who established their kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula. For a brief period, the region came under the control of the Byzantine Empire during its expansion under Emperor Justinian, who sought to restore the Roman Empire.
The Islamic Conquest (711 – 1462)
In 711, Berber troops from North Africa, led by General Ṭāriq ibn Ziyād, invaded the Iberian Peninsula. The Rock, named Jabal Tariq (Mount of Tariq) in his honour, became a key entry point for the Muslim expansion into Europe. Over time, the name Jabal Tariq evolved into “Gibraltar”. Under the rule of the Umayyads and later the Almoravids, Gibraltar served as a military bastion. The Moors held control of the area for over 700 years, deeply influencing the local culture and architecture.
The Christian Reconquista (1462 – 1704)
In 1462, during the Christian Reconquista, Spanish forces reclaimed Gibraltar from the Moors. For over two centuries, the area remained under Spanish control. During this period, the region’s strategic importance grew, especially after the discovery of the New World, strengthening its role in navigation and maritime trade. However, this era of Spanish rule was disrupted in the early 18th century when Gibraltar would change hands once again.
Capture by the British (1704)
British and Dutch forces captured Gibraltar in 1704, during the War of the Spanish Succession. In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht officially ceded the territory to Britain, marking a turning point in its history. Despite several attempts by the Spanish to retake it, notably during the Great Siege 1779-1783, Gibraltar has remained under British control to this day.
The Napoleonic Wars (1803 – 1815)
During the Napoleonic Wars, Gibraltar played a major role as a naval base for the British Royal Navy. Its strategic position allowed Britain to control access to the Mediterranean and monitor enemy ship movements. The fortress was significantly strengthened during this period, becoming a critical asset against Napoleon’s forces.
Gibraltar in World War II (1939 – 1945)
During World War II, Gibraltar’s importance increased even further. It became a key base for Allied operations in the Mediterranean, particularly for the campaigns in North Africa and Italy. The extensive network of tunnels carved into the Rock provided shelter for British troops and protected key infrastructures from enemy attack. Gibraltar became an impregnable fortress, guarding one of the most vital maritime chokepoints in the world.
Political Tensions with Spain (1950 – 1980)
After World War II, Gibraltar faced increasing political tensions with Spain, which repeatedly called for the territory’s return. A sovereignty referendum was held in 1967, with 99.6% of Gibraltar’s population voting to remain under British sovereignty. In response, Spanish dictator Francisco Franco closed the land border with Gibraltar in 1969, effectively isolating the region from Spain until it was reopened in 1985.
Gibraltar Today (1985 →)
Since the reopening of the border, Gibraltar has flourished as a prosperous enclave with a thriving economy based on tourism, financial services and online gaming. Despite ongoing discussions between the UK and Spain over sovereignty, Gibraltar remains firmly committed to its status as a British Overseas Territory.
2002 saw a second sovereignty referendum, when Gibraltarians rejected the principle of joint sovereignty with Spain by an overwhelming majority of 99%. In 2006, a tripartite cooperation agreement between Britain, Spain and Gibraltar strengthened cross-border relations. A referendum was held in Gibraltar in June 2016 on the issue of continued EU membership. Gibraltarians voted 95.9% to Remain in the European Union, on a voter turnout of 83.6%. Today, Gibraltar continues to play a key role in global trade and geopolitics while maintaining a unique identity deeply rooted in its history.
With its rich and eventful past, Gibraltar is much more than just an enclave. The territory is steeped in history, representing an intertwining of civilisations and cultures which dates back thousands of years, and a lasting symbol of resilience, strategy, and multiculturalism.
History buffs will enjoy exploring the Gibraltar National Museum which houses a wealth of exhibits and artefacts chronicling the region’s history, culture and natural history. https://www.gibmuseum.gi/
Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Vanessa Kingwell