Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a small peninsula located at the southern tip of Europe. It sits on the southern coast of Spain but is not part of Spain. Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, which means it is linked to the United Kingdom but governs many of its own local matters. The most famous feature of the area is the Rock of Gibraltar, a tall limestone rock that rises above the town.

Gibraltar lies next to the Strait of Gibraltar. A strait is a narrow body of water that connects two larger seas. This strait connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. Across the water to the south is the continent of Africa. At its narrowest point, the distance between Europe and Africa is about 14 kilometers.

The Rock of Gibraltar is made of limestone, a type of rock formed from ancient sea life. The rock contains many caves and tunnels. Some of these tunnels were built by people for defense during wars. The rock is also home to wild Barbary macaques. These are monkeys and are the only wild monkeys living in Europe.

Gibraltar has a mild Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm and dry. Winters are cooler and wetter. Because of its location, the weather can change quickly. Winds often blow through the strait, affecting ships that pass through. The sea around Gibraltar has long been used for travel and trade.

People have lived in Gibraltar since ancient times. The Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors all controlled the area at different times. In 1704, during the War of the Spanish Succession, Gibraltar was captured by forces supporting the British crown. In 1713, Spain formally gave Gibraltar to Britain in a treaty.

Today, Gibraltar has a small population living in a compact area. English is the main language used in government and schools. Many people also speak Spanish. The economy includes shipping services, tourism, and finance. Gibraltar remains an important geographic location because of its position between two continents and two seas.