Learn why Gibraltar was such a key asset to the Allies
Evacuation
Evacuation Orders
The British War Cabinet have agreed evacuation is the only option for Gibraltar. Being such a strategic stronghold, the British need to make space for military personnel
Time to Evacuate
Over 16,000 Gibraltarians were evacuated from their homes with very little warning and no knowledge of when they would return. Some left behind loved ones as they stayed to help in the war effort.
Diaspora
The evacuees had to endure dangerous journeys to what would become their new home for many years to come. Spread out across the globe, some did not return to Gibraltar until 11 years after they left
More Details
The story of Gibraltar’s civilian evacuation
The civilian evacuation of Gibraltar during World War II was an urgent and carefully coordinated effort due to the strategic importance of the territory. As the war intensified and the threat of Axis attacks grew, the British authorities made the difficult decision to evacuate the civilian population to ensure their safety and to free up resources for the defence of Gibraltar.
Gallery
More Information
Follow the story of Lourdes Pitaluga and learn of her experiences in the Second World War.
Lourdes was just a young teenager when she was evacuated with her family, who were moved across the globe, dodging U-boats on their voyage across the Atlantic. It wouldn’t be until many years later that she could finally return to her beloved home of Gibraltar.
Other Exhibits
