Moorish Castle, Gibraltar

The Moorish Castle is one of Gibraltar’s most important historical landmarks and a fascinating stop on our Gibraltar Tours. The fortifications on and around the site were first built around 1160 AD, or possibly earlier, during the Islamic period. These early structures were later destroyed during the Spanish re-conquest of Gibraltar between 1309 and 1333.

The Tower of Homage

The castle’s most prominent feature is the Tower of Homage, which dominates the hillside and the landward approach to Gibraltar. The tower was substantially rebuilt in the 14th century by Abu’l-Hassan of the Marinid dynasty following the Muslim recapture of Gibraltar from Spanish forces.

The Tower of Homage bears visible scars from the many battles and sieges that shaped Gibraltar’s history. One famous episode occurred when the Count of Niebla attacked the fortress but was captured by its defenders. His body was subsequently displayed from the castle walls as a warning to future attackers.

Sieges & Battle Scars

The Moorish Castle has witnessed centuries of conflict. During one siege, a Spanish governor held out for five months against the Duke of Medina Sidonia before Gibraltar was eventually captured. In 1540, hundreds of local residents also sought refuge within the castle when Turkish pirates attacked Gibraltar.

The castle complex once extended much further down the Rock, reaching towards Casemates Square, the Grand Battery and the Old Mole. Its more recent history is equally interesting, with part of the complex serving as Gibraltar’s prison until 2010.

Today, the Moorish Castle provides an important link between Gibraltar’s Islamic, Spanish and British heritage. With its restored Tower of Homage, improved interpretation and developing new visitor experiences, it is an increasingly significant attraction to visit as part of a Gibraltar Tour.

A Newly Restored Visitor Experience

Following an extensive programme of conservation, restoration and interpretation, the Moorish Castle has been transformed into an enhanced heritage attraction. The newly restored and interpreted Tower of Homage opens to visitors on 14 September 2026, providing a much deeper insight into the castle’s medieval origins and its importance throughout Gibraltar’s history.

The refurbishment has also improved the presentation and accessibility of the castle complex, helping visitors understand how the site developed through the Moorish, Spanish and British periods. Further phases of the project are planned, including a new Dungeons experience within the former prison complex and connections towards the Northern Defences.

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