Moorish Baths, Gibraltar

The Moorish Baths are a 14th-century bathhouse containing four connected chambers with arched ceilings and supporting pillars throughout. Star-shaped roof openings flood each room with natural light, revealing how the space was carefully designed for bathing.

The bathhouse was constructed around 1355 during the Marinid dynasty as part of a governor's palace complex. Its construction reflects the importance bathing held for the ruling class of that era.

The baths reflect layers of cultural exchange, visible in the carved capitals that blend different artistic traditions. Visitors walking through notice how this space once served the city's elite and their daily routines.

The baths are located in the basement of Gibraltar Museum on Bomb House Lane and are part of a larger permanent exhibition. Wear comfortable shoes since the floor is uneven and headroom is limited in several spots.

An underground duct system channeled hot air from a boiler chamber beneath the baths, working like ancient Roman hypocaust heating. This heating method was advanced for its time and demonstrates technical knowledge that was uncommon in medieval bathhouses.

Location: Gibraltar

Architectural style: Moorish architecture

GPS coordinates: 36.13900,-5.35440

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44