Gibraltar and Spanish Sth Coast

'Gibraltar - The Cradle of History', the monument says, and we learn today all about the history of The Rock and the important role it has played for many years in defence of various countries. It is in such a strategic position with 180 degree views and an amazing vantage point. The parallel terraced lines on the cliff face were excavated from solid rock in the 1700s. They give access to the subterranean barracks we will walk through later today. These Northern Defences were developed to allow the guns to fire out over the isthmus. It came to be known as 'the mouth of fire' by the attacking Spanish and French forces.