Gorham’s Cave Complex

Gibraltar has a deep connection with the Neanderthals. The first complete Neanderthal adult skull was found here in 1848, even before the famous discovery in the Neander Valley in Germany. Another skull, known as the Devil’s Tower Child, was uncovered in 1926. In July 2016, Gorham’s Cave Complex was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkable evidence of Neanderthal and early modern human life over roughly 120,000 years.

How to Get There

To visit Gorham’s Cave Complex, start your journey at Martin’s Path by Jew’s Gate on the Rock of Gibraltar’s western slopes. The trail takes you around the southern edges of the Rock, eventually connecting with the Mediterranean Steps on the eastern side. These steps zig-zag up the steep cliffs, leading near the summit at Lord Airey’s and O’Hara’s Batteries. Alternatively, you can enjoy the views from the Europa Advance Batteries Viewing Platform, which offers stunning vistas without harming the site’s delicate nature.

Attractions

1. Gorham’s Cave Complex: This impressive group of sea-level caves holds archaeological deposits that reveal Neanderthal and early modern human life in Gibraltar.
2. Vanguard Cave: A significant cave that has been excavated, showing the Neanderthals’ last refuge around 32,000 years ago.
3. Goat’s Hair Twin Caves: Paleolithic caves located along the Mediterranean Steps trail.
4. Europa Advance Batteries Viewing Platform: Provides panoramic views of the site and is accessible to everyone.
5. Mediterranean Steps: A steep path offering breathtaking views across the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea.

Ticket Information

• Nature Reserve Fee: Included in the Nature Reserve fee, available for a small charge upon entry (free for children under 5).
• Viewing Platform Fee: £5.00 per adult, £2.50 per child under 12, free for infants under 5 and Gibraltar Identity Card holders.
• Standard Tour Fee: £25 per person, plus a guide fee of £25 per group for pre-booked guided walking tours to Gorham’s Cave.

Tips for Visiting

1. Book Ahead: Due to limited visitor numbers, it’s best to book guided tours or visits in advance.
2. Accessibility: The caves are moderately challenging to reach on foot, and visits might be delayed if the weather is bad. The viewing platform is accessible to all.
3. Respect the Site: The caves are delicate and have a visitor limit to protect the archaeological deposits.
4. Boat Trips: Specialized boat trips offer unique views of the site from the sea, including Gorham’s and Vanguard Caves, bookable through Dolphin Adventure.
5. Interpretation Panels: Staff from the Gibraltar National Museum provide insights and explain the significance of this unique location.

Gorham’s Cave Complex is a captivating place that offers a peek into the lives of our ancient ancestors. With its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and well-preserved archaeological sites, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Visit Gibraltar, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons