WW2 Tunnels • Gibraltar

Gibraltar’s defences

A British patrol is on the lookout for enemy movements

Unloading supplies at the dock

Our Mission

Embark on a poignant journey through the wartime echoes ensconced in Gibraltar’s tunnel system.

Our immersive WWII experience unveils the untold stories etched in the rock, narrating the resilient spirit of both civilians and soldiers who transformed these tunnels into a bastion of hope and survival during one of history’s darkest hours.

A 9.2-inch coastal gun on the Rock of Gibraltar, 4 January 1942

Discover the WWII Tunnels

Activities

Talks and Tours

Events

Exhibitions

Activities

An Immersive Journey Through History

Step into Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels and embark on a journey through history. Interactive displays transport visitors back to the wartime era, where they can test their skills in Allied threat assessment and Morse code decoding. Engage with real-world artifacts and get hands-on with history, culminating in an up-close look at a full size replica Spitfire. This unique experience offers a tactile and educational adventure, bringing the past vividly to life.

Talks and Tours

Audio Tour

Coming soon to The Tunnels!

Enhance your journey through Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels with our extended free audio tour. Dive deeper into the fascinating history as you explore, with expert commentary and stories that bring each corner of the tunnels to life. The audio tour enriches your experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the strategic significance and human stories behind this wartime marvel.

Coming soon to The Tunnels!

Events

A Vibrant Calendar of Events

Discover a vibrant calendar of events at Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels, offering unique experiences in an extraordinary setting. Host your own catered events and enjoy drinks at The Tunneller’s Rest, the only bar inside the Rock. For larger gatherings, the Spitfire Hall, featuring a replica Gibraltar Spitfire, provides a stunning venue, while the Sapper’s Suite offers an intimate space for smaller meetings.

Make your event unforgettable in this historic and atmospheric location.

Exhibitions

Dynamic Wartime History

Discover the dramatic civilian evacuation, the strategic importance of the Rock, and the intricate spy games that unfolded here in Gibraltar during WWII. Learn how and why Gibraltar was so strategically significant for the British forces, and read stories of the men and women who sacrificed so much during this time.

Explore Our Exhibits

Visitor Experience

Discover

Book The Tunnels

WWII
Event Space

Discover our main events space, The Spitfire Hall, a WWII R.E.M.E chamber that has been repurposed into a captivating events space.

Perfect for private functions, music events, corporate events and weddings, The Spitfire Hall offers a unique venue that will impress your guests

About The Space

Promotional Materials

Latest Brochure

Download our latest brochure here

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Into the Skies, Beneath the Rock: The Spitfire at

Into the Skies, Beneath the Rock: The Spitfire at The Tunnels

A symbol of courage. A story of strategy. And now, an unforgettable sight deep underground.

Our full-size Spitfire replica has landed inside The Tunnels — and it’s already capturing imaginations. More than just an aircraft, it represents Gibraltar’s pivotal role in WWII, from launching Operation Torch to the vital contributions of the civilian population.

See it. Feel it. Experience history like never before — only at The Tunnels.

#SpitfireInTheTunnels
#WWIIHistory
#GibraltarHistory
#OperationTorch
#LivingHistory
#AviationHeritage
#DiscoverGibraltar
#UndergroundLegend
#HistoricGibraltar
#WWIIExperience
#VisitGibraltar
#WartimeStories
#TheTunnelsGibraltar

Into the Skies, Beneath the Rock: The Spitfire at The Tunnels A symbol of courage. A story of st…

Real Stories. Lasting Impact. Recently, we had the

Real Stories. Lasting Impact.
Recently, we had the honour of welcoming local families who have generously shared their personal histories with us — stories of evacuation, service, and sacrifice during WWII.

These aren’t just tales from the past. They are real, human experiences that remind us of the resilience, courage, and community spirit that shaped Gibraltar’s role in the war.

We’re proud to share these voices with the thousands who walk through the WWII Tunnels — because history means more when it’s personal.

#WWIITunnels #GibraltarHistory #OurPeopleOurStory #LivingHistory

Real Stories. Lasting Impact. Recently, we had the honour of welcoming local families who have ge…

Discover the WWII Operations That Shaped Gibraltar

Discover the WWII Operations That Shaped Gibraltar

The WWII Tunnels now feature exhibits exploring Gibraltar’s role in key wartime operations.

Step inside and learn about:
• Operation Torch – the Allied landings in North Africa, launched with Gibraltar’s support.
• Operation Tracer – a secret mission to leave men hidden inside the Rock to report on enemy movements.
• Operation Catapult – Britain’s controversial decision to neutralise the French fleet.
• Operation Felix – Nazi Germany’s unrealised plan to capture Gibraltar.

These exhibits bring to life the wider strategic importance of Gibraltar during the war, offering insight into the decisions, risks, and plans that unfolded around the Rock.

#WWIITunnelsGibraltar #OperationTorch #OperationTracer #OperationCatapult #OperationFelix #GibraltarHistory #WWIIExhibits #UpperRock

Discover the WWII Operations That Shaped Gibraltar The WWII Tunnels now feature exhibits explori…

During WWII, Gibraltar wasn’t just a fortress — it was the key to controlling the gateway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

From inside The Rock, the Allies coordinated vital operations across the region, including the defence of Malta and the invasion of Italy. Aircraft were built here, fleets were launched, and strategies were shaped in secret.

Gibraltar stood as a lone Allied outpost surrounded by Axis forces — a strategic prize that changed the course of the war.

#WWIIHistory #Gibraltar #StrategicStronghold #InsideTheRock #militaryhistory

Image courtesy of @imperialwarmuseums

During WWII, Gibraltar wasn’t just a fortress — it was the key to controlling the gateway between…

🔎 Defending Gibraltar: A Fortress Reborn In Ju

🔎 Defending Gibraltar: A Fortress Reborn

In July 1940, Major-General Mason-MacFarlane was appointed Second in Command of Gibraltar’s garrison, making the Rock’s defenses a top priority. His drastic approach—demolishing buildings to clear fields of fire—earned him the nickname Demolition Mac.

#GibraltarHistory #WWII #FortressGibraltar #DefendingTheRock

🔎 Defending Gibraltar: A Fortress Reborn In July 1940, Major-General Mason-MacFarlane was appoin…

📻 Step Back in Time: The Sounds of WWII Inside

📻 Step Back in Time: The Sounds of WWII Inside Gibraltar’s Tunnels 🇬🇮

Inside Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels, history isn’t just something you see—it’s something you hear. A replica wartime radio plays a carefully curated mix of the Top 10 wartime hits enjoyed by Allied troops, along with intermittent news reports from the era, recreating the atmosphere of life underground during the war.

From the swing of Vera Lynn to the urgency of wartime broadcasts, this immersive experience transports you back to a time when the tunnels were a hive of military activity, secrecy, and resilience.

Come and listen to history in a way you’ve never heard before! 🎶📰

#WWIIHistory #GibraltarTunnels #LivingHistory #WartimeRadio #echoesofthepast

📻 Step Back in Time: The Sounds of WWII Inside Gibraltar’s Tunnels 🇬🇮 Inside Gibraltar’s WWII tu…

✈️ Gibraltar’s Runway: Built from the Rock I

✈️ Gibraltar’s Runway: Built from the Rock Itself! 🏗️

Did you know that Gibraltar’s iconic runway was expanded using rock mined from its very own tunnels? During WWII, thousands of tons of limestone were excavated from inside the Rock as part of an extensive tunneling effort to create bombproof shelters, storage facilities, and hidden military installations. Rather than let the material go to waste, engineers used the excavated rock to extend Gibraltar’s airstrip into the Bay, creating the larger runway we see today!

This wartime innovation turned Gibraltar into a critical Allied stronghold, ensuring aircraft could land and take off safely, despite the limited flat land available. A true example of resilience, engineering ingenuity, and Gibraltar’s unique ability to make the most of its landscape!

#Gibraltar #WWIIHistory #GibraltarRunway #TunnelsOfGibraltar #MilitaryInnovation #aviationhistory

✈️ Gibraltar’s Runway: Built from the Rock Itself! 🏗️ Did you know that Gibraltar’s iconic runwa…

🔦 Discovering Gibraltar’s Hidden WWII Tunnels

🔦 Discovering Gibraltar’s Hidden WWII Tunnels: Hay’s Level 🔦

Beneath the Rock of Gibraltar lies an incredible network of tunnels, a hidden fortress built during World War II. Hay’s Level, part of this vast underground system, was constructed by the Royal Engineers to support British troops against a potential German invasion, Operation Felix. These tunnels housed storage facilities, accommodation, hospitals, and power stations, making Gibraltar a stronghold for Allied forces.

Named after Lt. Col. Alistair Hay, Hay’s Level also played a crucial role in preparing 30,000 troops for Operation Torch, the 1942 Allied campaign in North Africa. The civilian branch of the City Engineer’s office contributed to early defensive works, including the excavation of the Calpe Road shelter—later transformed into one of Gibraltar’s four underground hospitals.

A testament to wartime ingenuity and resilience, Hay’s Level is a fascinating piece of history beneath our feet. Have you explored Gibraltar’s WWII tunnels? Share your experience!

#Gibraltar #WWIIHistory #TunnelsOfGibraltar #UndergroundFortress #historyuncovered

🔦 Discovering Gibraltar’s Hidden WWII Tunnels: Hay’s Level 🔦 Beneath the Rock of Gibraltar lies …

✈️ From REME Workshop to Spitfire Hall – A S

✈️ From REME Workshop to Spitfire Hall – A Space Transformed 🇬🇮

Did you know? Our Spitfire Hall was originally built as a REME (Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers) workshop!

During its time as a REME facility, skilled engineers and technicians worked tirelessly to maintain and repair military equipment, keeping Gibraltar’s defenses operational. Today, this historic space has been transformed into the Spitfire Hall, home to the replica of the ‘Gibraltar’ Spitfire, honoring the aircraft and the people who made it possible.

A space once dedicated to keeping the war effort running now preserves the legacy of those who served.

#Gibraltar #WWIIHistory #SpitfireHall #REME #militaryheritage

✈️ From REME Workshop to Spitfire Hall – A Space Transformed 🇬🇮 Did you know? Our Spitfire Hall …

✈️ The Spitfire ‘Gibraltar’ – A Communit

✈️ The Spitfire ‘Gibraltar’ – A Community’s Tribute to the War Effort 🇬🇮

In the summer of 1940, as the Battle of Britain raged, Gibraltar’s people rallied to support the war effort, raising £5,594 11s 3d through the Gibraltar Chronicle to fund the construction of a Spitfire.

Completed in 1941, Spitfire Mk.IIa P8394 ‘Gibraltar’ served in bomber escorts and convoy patrols, a testament to Gibraltar’s unwavering commitment to the fight for freedom.

Today, a replica of the ‘Gibraltar’ Spitfire proudly hangs in our Spitfire Hall, ensuring that this incredible story and the community’s contribution to WWII are never forgotten.

#Gibraltar #WWIIHistory #Spitfire #BattleOfBritain #neverforget

✈️ The Spitfire ‘Gibraltar’ – A Community’s Tribute to the War Effort 🇬🇮 In the summer of 1940, …

Gibraltar: The Steel Chain of Sea Power ⚓️ Gi

Gibraltar: The Steel Chain of Sea Power ⚓️

Gibraltar’s strategic location at the gateway to the Atlantic and the Mediterranean was vital to WWII. As Churchill took charge in 1940, it became central to Britain’s war strategy. Sea lanes from the USA, Canada, and the West Indies supplied Britain with food, ammunition, and raw materials.

At the other end of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar linked to Malta and the Suez Canal, keeping critical routes to Asia and Africa open.

Controlling Gibraltar meant controlling access to the world’s maritime routes.

#WWII #Gibraltar #NavalPower #history

Image courtesy @imperialwarmuseums

Gibraltar: The Steel Chain of Sea Power ⚓️ Gibraltar’s strategic location at the gateway to the …

Inside The Strategy Room: Decisions That Shaped Hi

Inside The Strategy Room: Decisions That Shaped History

Step into The Strategy Room, where the world stood on the brink of war. Walk through Prime Minister Chamberlain’s fateful declaration against Germany and witness the global mobilization against Axis forces.

Uncover Gibraltar’s pivotal role in the Mediterranean theatre—its strategic importance, daring wartime operations, and resilience. Delve into the astonishing tunneling efforts that transformed the Rock into a fortress.

Real artifacts. Original footage. Unforgettable stories.

📍 Experience history in The Strategy Room. #WWII #gibraltar
#wwiihistory
#livinghistory
#UndergroundFortress
#historyuncovered

Inside The Strategy Room: Decisions That Shaped History Step into The Strategy Room, where the w…

History in Your Sights! Step back in time with t

History in Your Sights!

Step back in time with two iconic weapons that shaped history!

Original Bren Gun (LMG)
Designed in Czechoslovakia and adopted by British and Commonwealth forces in the 1930s, this versatile light machine gun saw action in WWII, the Korean War, and the Falklands. With a rate of fire of 500–520 rounds per minute and an impressive maximum range of 1,690m, it’s a true symbol of battlefield innovation.

Replica SMLE Rifle (Short Magazine Lee-Enfield)
The backbone of British and Commonwealth infantry during both World Wars, this bolt-action rifle was famed for its reliability and accuracy. With a maximum range of 2,743m and firing the .303 MK VII cartridge, it’s a legend that remained in service until the 1950s.

These pieces are a testament to military engineering excellence.

#MilitaryHistory #WWII #BrenGun #LeeEnfield #HistoricalWeapons #MuseumExhibit #historylovers

History in Your Sights! Step back in time with two iconic weapons that shaped history! Origina…

Spitfires Over Gibraltar: A WWII Game Changer 🇬

Spitfires Over Gibraltar: A WWII Game Changer 🇬🇮✈️

Gibraltar’s strategic position at the entrance to the Mediterranean made it a vital hub for Allied operations during World War II. Serving as a key base for Spitfires, it became essential for launching missions, carrying out repairs, and refueling—boosting the effectiveness of Allied air power in the region.

During the 1942 North Africa invasion (Operation Torch), Spitfires from Gibraltar played a crucial role in securing air superiority, protecting convoys, and disrupting Axis supply routes. Their efforts were instrumental in safeguarding Allied shipping lanes and ensuring the steady flow of troops and supplies needed for victory.

A small territory with a massive impact on the war effort.

#Gibraltar #WWII #Spitfires #OperationTorch #AviationHistory #MilitaryHistory #AlliedVictory #historicgibraltar

Image courtesy of @imperialwarmuseums

Spitfires Over Gibraltar: A WWII Game Changer 🇬🇮✈️ Gibraltar’s strategic position at the entranc…

⛏️ Unearthing History: Tunneling Artifacts of

⛏️ Unearthing History: Tunneling Artifacts of Gibraltar ⛏️

Step into the depths of Gibraltar’s underground past! The tunnels beneath the Rock hold more than just stories—they preserve the very tools and artifacts used by those who carved out this strategic stronghold. From hand-forged picks and shovels to wartime equipment left behind, these relics offer a glimpse into the relentless effort of soldiers and engineers who shaped Gibraltar’s defenses.

Each artifact tells a story of endurance, innovation, and survival beneath the surface. Visit the display and connect with the past—where every tunnel holds a piece of history.

#Gibraltar #TunnelsOfTheRock #WWIIHistory #MilitaryEngineering #hiddenhistory

⛏️ Unearthing History: Tunneling Artifacts of Gibraltar ⛏️ Step into the depths of Gibraltar’s u…

🔎 The Strategy Room: Gibraltar’s Role in a Wo

🔎 The Strategy Room: Gibraltar’s Role in a World on the Brink 🔎

Hidden within the tunnels of Gibraltar, the Strategy Room tells the story of a world on the edge of war and the rapid mobilization that followed. As a crucial military outpost, Gibraltar became a key player in the Allied war effort, its defenses strengthened by an extraordinary feat of engineering—an extensive network of tunnels and fortifications carved into the Rock.

From here, military leaders orchestrated operations, navigated wartime challenges, and ensured Gibraltar remained an unshakable stronghold in the Mediterranean. Step inside and witness the history of a fortress that shaped the outcome of war.

#Gibraltar #StrategyRoom #WWIIHistory #FortressOfTheRock #tunnelingengineering

🔎 The Strategy Room: Gibraltar’s Role in a World on the Brink 🔎 Hidden within the tunnels of Gib…

🔎 Gibraltar: A Strategic Stronghold in WWII Gi

🔎 Gibraltar: A Strategic Stronghold in WWII

Gibraltar played a crucial role in World War II, controlling vital sea lanes between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. As a key base for the Allies, it supported military operations across the region, from the defense of Malta to the invasion of Italy. The Rock served as a critical hub for naval forces, aircraft, and strategic planning, making it a significant location during the war.

⚓ A fortress of strength.
⚔️ A gateway to victory.
🏛️ A history worth remembering.

Image courtesy @imperialwarmuseums

#Gibraltar #WWIIHistory #StrategicStronghold #MilitaryHistory #therock

🔎 Gibraltar: A Strategic Stronghold in WWII Gibraltar played a crucial role in World War II, con…

💡 Did you know? 💡 Gibraltar’s military tun

💡 Did you know? 💡
Gibraltar’s military tunneling operations were pivotal during World War II! Between 1941 and 1943, an incredible 18 miles (29 km) of tunnels were excavated, adding to the existing 7 miles created since 1779. By the 1960s, Gibraltar’s tunnel network stretched a staggering 34 miles (54.7 km) – approximately the length of Gibraltar’s roads at the time!

🚧 This immense feat was achieved by teams of Royal Engineers, including Canadian tunneling companies and miners who adapted to Gibraltar’s hard rock conditions using cutting-edge diamond drills. Much of the excavated rock was used to expand Gibraltar’s airfield, a critical resource during the war.

Explore the stories of those who dug deep under Gibraltar and shaped its history beneath the surface.

Image courtesy @imperialwarmuseums

#GibraltarHistory #MilitaryEngineering #TunnelsOfGibraltar #WWIIHistory #EngineeringFeats #RockOfGibraltar #HiddenHistory #RoyalEngineers #MilitaryInnovation #historicallandmarks

💡 Did you know? 💡 Gibraltar’s military tunneling operations were pivotal during World War II! Bet…

Step into history and walk the Hallway of Heroes!

Step into history and walk the Hallway of Heroes! Discover the incredible stories of the men and women who shaped Gibraltar’s WWII legacy in extraordinary ways. #WWIIHistory #Gibraltar #hallwayofheroes

#WWIILegacy #WWIIStories #WWIIHeroes #militaryhistory #RockOfGibraltar #HiddenHistory #WWIITunnels #SecretTunnels #MilitaryEngineering #UndergroundGibraltar #RememberingWWII #LestWeForget #WeWillRememberThem #HistoryMatters #HonoringThePast #livinghistory

Step into history and walk the Hallway of Heroes! Discover the incredible stories of the men and …

🔎 Step into history! The newly refurbished WWII

🔎 Step into history! The newly refurbished WWII Tunnels exhibition is now open!

⛏️ Explore incredible feats of engineering
💪 Discover stories of resilience, sacrifice & bravery

Experience Gibraltar’s wartime past like never before. Plan your visit today! #WWIITunnels #GibraltarHistory #hiddenstories

#VisitGibraltar #GibraltarHistory #WWIITunnels #HiddenGibraltar #ExploreGibraltar #WWIIHistory #WarTimeStories #UndergroundAdventures #MilitaryHistory #EngineeringMarvels #StepIntoHistory #DiscoverTheTunnels #HistoryComesAlive #SecretTunnels

🔎 Step into history! The newly refurbished WWII Tunnels exhibition is now open! ⛏️ Explore incre…