Grand Casemates Square, Central plaza in Gibraltar, United Kingdom
Grand Casemates Square is a central public plaza in Gibraltar featuring stone buildings with arched walkways that house numerous shops and restaurants. The space serves as a key gathering point and marks the entrance to the city's main commercial street.
The square was built in 1817 as part of British military fortifications and served as a defensive position for stationed troops. Over time it evolved from a purely military site into a public center for commerce and gathering.
The square becomes a center for celebration during Gibraltar National Day, with red and white decorations and traditional music performances filling the space. It serves as a place where the community gathers to express shared identity and mark important local occasions.
The square is situated near the airport and Spanish border, making it easily accessible from various entry points. You will find plenty of cafes and shops here, plus it serves as a natural starting point for walking tours through the city.
The ground beneath the square consists entirely of sand, built over a beach where Moorish galleys landed in 1160. This unusual foundation reveals the site's long maritime history and how it transformed from a natural shoreline into an urban space.
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