The fascinating history of Gibraltar

Gibraltar: A place with a colourful history and fascinating future

Very few places in the world can compare with "the Rock". Gibraltar not only has a unique strategic position at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, but is also connected to the mainland by a small isthmus, which does not only contain the main thoroughfare, but also the airport's landing-strip. With a population of 30,000, Gibraltar is rather small, but visually quite imposing. Even from several hundred kilometres you can see the Rock on a clear day - with a height of approximately 426 metres not very surprising. Gibraltar is pure history. The tumultuous and eclectic mix of cultures goes back many years. Archaeological treasures and priceless artefacts can be found at Gibraltar's museum. The lively history of its inhabitants is documented by prehistoric caves, where a Neanderthal was found; a Moorish castle from the 11 th century; but also branched tunnels which served as a hideout and protection from enemies not only during World War II.

The imposing architecture with its Georgian and Victorian buildings, as well as the influence of the Portuguese and Moors is unmistakable. For more than seven centuries, Gibraltar was in Moorish hands; but in 1462 went back to the Spaniards. At the beginning of the 18 th century, the Rock was under Dutch-British governance and was given in perpetuity to the British Crown under the Treaty of Utrecht. During General Franco's regime, the border to Gibraltar was closed. Spain unsuccessfully attempted to reclaim the Rock. The result was that from 1969 to 1982, the country could only be reached by air or by sea.

Even today, it is primarily the British who are given landing-rights to the unusual airport of Gibraltar. Spain threatens all commercial airlines with reprisals, should they decide to fly into Gibraltar. As a private enterprise, we have procured a special permit by the Royal Air Force, allowing us to circumvent this problem. Today's Gibraltar is a respected financial centre - a duty-free shopping-paradise for cigarettes, electronics, cosmetics and jewellery. Glassblowing is still practiced in Gibraltar and has an excellent reputation and worldwide exports. Gibraltar is pure adventure. Landing and take-off on the partially submerged landing-strip is an experience in itself. You'll glide in next to the Rock and land just behind the beach, while the main-thoroughfare closes to let the plane pass. And when the DC-3 takes off a few days later on our way home, Captain Heinz-Dieter Kallbach will circle the Rock, to make your journey even more unforgettable.