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Gibraltar is a self-governing British overseas territory located near the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. The territory shares a border with Spain to the north. Gibraltar has historically been an important base for the British Armed Forces and is the site of a Royal Navy base.

The name of the territory is derived from the Arabic name Jabal Tāriq (جبل طارق), meaning "mountain of Tariq", or from Gibel Tāriq, meaning "rock of Tariq". It refers to the geological formation, the Rock of Gibraltar, and the Berber Umayyad general Tariq ibn-Ziyad, who led the initial incursion into Iberia in advance of the main Moorish force in 711. Earlier, it was known as Mons Calpe, one of the Pillars of Hercules. Today, Gibraltar is known colloquially as Gib or The Rock.

The sovereignty of Gibraltar is a major issue of contention in Anglo-Spanish relations. Spain requests the return of sovereignty, ceded by Spain in perpetuity in 1713 under the Treaty of Utrecht. The overwhelming majority of Gibraltarian strongly oppose this, along with any proposal of shared sovereignty.

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The military history of Gibraltar during World War II exemplifies Gibraltar's position as a British fortress since the early 18th century and as a vital factor in British military strategy, both as a foothold on the continent of Europe, and as a bastion of British sea power. During World War II, Gibraltar served a vital role in the Mediterranean Theatre, controlling virtually all naval traffic into and out of the Mediterranean Sea from the west.

Inside the Rock of Gibraltar itself, miles of tunnels were excavated from the limestone. Masses of rock were blasted out to build an "underground city". In huge man-made caverns, barracks, offices, and a fully equipped hospital were constructed, complete with an operating theatre and x-ray equipment.

Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of French North Africa in November 1942, was coordinated from the "Rock". General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was given command of the operation, set up his headquarters in Gibraltar during the planning phases of the operation. (more...)

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Sir George Rooke (1650 – January 24, 1709), English naval commander, was born near Canterbury in 1650. Entering the navy as a volunteer, he served in the Dutch Wars and became post captain in 1673.

He became Rear Admiral in 1690, and fought at the Battle of Beachy Head. In May 1692 he served under Russell at the Battle of Barfleur, and he greatly distinguished himself in a night attack on the French fleet at La Hogue, when he succeeded in burning six of their ships. Shortly afterwards he received the honour of knighthood and a reward of £1,000.

In 1702 he commanded the disastrous expedition against Cádiz, but on the passage home destroyed the Spanish treasure fleet in the Battle of Vigo Bay. (more...)

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« Did you know... »

• ... that Gibraltar's St. Michael's Cave (pictured), prepared as an emergency hospital during World War II, at present contains an auditorium and receives almost a million visitors a year?
• ... that Gibraltarian pop rock band Taxi is made up of three of Melon Diesel's former members and write songs in Spanish only despite their being British?
• ...that the Gibraltar Football Association had their UEFA membership application blocked by Spain due to their claim on the territory?
• ...that Gibraltarian degree level students studying in a UK university receive a full scholarship from the Government of Gibraltar?
• ...that Gibraltar passports are full British passports which are particularly issued to Gibraltarians and only differ in some wording?
• ...that the cuisine of Gibraltar includes Maltese, Genoese and Portuguese culinary influences?

« Recent news »

• 10 October - Following severe gale force winds measuring 11 on the Beaufort scale, the bulk carrier MV Fedra ran aground on rocks at Europa Point, and broke in two. The crew were safely rescued, but some of the fuel oil escaped in the very bad weather. The Captain was later arrested.
• 22 September - It was announced that the remaining Iberia flights to Madrid would cease operation at the end of September due to "economic reasons", namely, lack of demand.
• 13 February - Gibraltar Football Association to play the semi-professional footballers of England, Wales and Scotland in a 'Home' Nations quadrangular tournament at the end of May. (Gibraltar Chronicle)
• 10 February - The New Flame's No. 5 cargo hold floods due to stormy weather conditions in the strait, resulting in further sinking. (Gibfocus)
• 6 February - Leader of the Opposition, Joe Bossano, appears as a witness before the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Commons in London. (Gibfocus)

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