A Remarkable Feat of Military Engineering
Carved by hand into the northern face of the Rock, the Great Siege Tunnels stand as one of Gibraltar’s most remarkable feats of military engineering. Built during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779–1783), these tunnels were excavated by British soldiers to create gun emplacements that could defend the Rock from Spanish and French forces.
Today they offer a fascinating window into 18th-century military history — with original cannon emplacements, dramatic views of the Spanish mainland, and expert guided commentary that brings the story of the Great Siege vividly to life.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for one of Gibraltar’s most iconic experiences, the Great Siege Tunnels are not to be missed.
Key Highlights
- ✔Hand-carved 18th-century tunnels
- ✔Original cannon emplacements
- ✔Stunning views of the Spanish mainland
- ✔Audio-visual displays
- ✔Expert guided commentary
- ✔Accessible for all fitness levels
What to Expect
Meet Your Guide
We collect you from your hotel, cruise ship or agreed meeting point.
Enter the Rock
Drive up through the Upper Rock Nature Reserve to the tunnel entrance.
Explore the Tunnels
Walk through the hand-carved passages with your expert local guide.
Panoramic Views
Take in sweeping views across to the Spanish mainland before departing.
Great Siege Tunnels Gibraltar: History & Significance
The Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779–1783) was one of the longest sieges in British military history. Spain and France allied to recapture the Rock, which Britain had held since 1704. With no overland access and sea supply routes under constant threat, the British garrison had to improvise.
Sergeant Major Henry Ince conceived the idea of tunnelling into the Rock to create new gun positions. Work began in 1782 and resulted in an entirely new type of tunnel fortification — a concept later replicated by military engineers around the world.
Explore the Tunnels
Inside the tunnel passages
Original cannon emplacements
Views across the Spanish mainland
Why Visit with Rock & Monkey Tours?
Expert Local Guides
Born and raised in Gibraltar, our guides know the Rock inside out and bring every story to life.
Private Tours
Your tour, your pace. No strangers, no large groups — just your party and your guide.
Flexible Timing
We work around your schedule, whether you’re a cruise passenger or a land-based visitor.
Best Price
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Outstanding value for a premium private experience.
Small Groups
We keep groups small so you get a genuinely personal and unhurried experience.
Memorable Experience
From the first cannon emplacement to the last sweeping view — memories that last a lifetime.
“Our guide was absolutely incredible — passionate, knowledgeable and hilarious. The Great Siege Tunnels blew us away. Rock & Monkey Tours made it the highlight of our whole cruise.”