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British Overseas Territories

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is located on the southern coast of Spain. It is a small peninsula measuring only 6.7 square kilometers and has a population of around 34,000 people. It is known for its iconic rock formation and as a strategic location for military and naval operations.

Gibraltar is a vibrant and diverse community that blends British and Mediterranean cultures. It has a thriving tourism industry, duty-free shopping, and a busy port that serves as a gateway to Africa. Gibraltar also boasts a rich history, including its famous role in the Battle of Trafalgar.

34.0K

People

2.6 sq mi

Area

£1.64 bn

GDP

Dolphin protection zone

Gibraltar's waters are a protected area for common and striped dolphins, making it a popular destination for dolphin watching and eco-tourism.

Monkeys

The Barbary macaques are a species of tailless monkeys that have lived on the Rock of Gibraltar for hundreds of years. They are an iconic symbol of Gibraltar and a popular tourist attraction.

Strategic location

Gibraltar's location at the entrance to the Mediterranean has made it strategically important for military and naval operations for centuries, influencing its history and development.

The Barbary macaques, or Barbary apes, are a tailless monkey species that have lived on Gibraltar's rock for centuries. They are a popular tourist attraction and an iconic symbol of Gibraltar. Legend has it that as long as the monkeys live on the rock, Gibraltar will remain under British rule. This comes from a story where the apes awoke and alerted British soldiers in various Spanish invasion attempts.

Gibraltar's economy is diverse and heavily influenced by its status as a British Overseas Territory. The finance and online gambling sectors are the largest contributors, followed by tourism, shipping, and bunkering. Gibraltar's status as a tax haven and free port attracts international companies, and its low tax rates and regulatory environment contribute to its prosperity. However, the territory's dependence on these sectors makes it vulnerable to external factors such as Brexit and changing international regulations.

Gibraltarians live a unique lifestyle creating a unique fusion of British, Mediterranean and North African cultures. Fancy a corned beef butty and tapas down by the seaside? The nearest shop awaits you.

Chief Minister

Fabian Picardo

Capital

Gibraltar

Governor

Sir David Steel