There are many miles of tunnels inside the Rock of Gibraltar. Many of these were excavated during the Second World War and could house thousands of men and equipment. From one of these tunnels a secret passageway led to a cave...
steep steps led down to an opening in the cliff (above) below which a metal ladder (now gone) gave access to the cave.
Boat Hoist Cave is a huge cave, only accessible from this tunnel or directly from the sea, the Mediterranean.These photos were taken during a visit that we undertook to explore the site. The boat and the diver (by the cave entrance) give an idea of scale and difficulty of access. once inside, there is a beach with the debris brought in by the sea over the years...
the cave goes deep into the Rock, where the door leading to the tunnels is situated...
metal rings fixed to the cave wall were meant for ropes that would keep boats fixed alongside the beach...
this is Boat Hoist Cave - part of a secret escape route for the Governor of Gibraltar should Gibraltar have been overrun by the Nazis. From here a light craft would transport the Governor to a waiting submarine...









Really interesting. Lots of places like this across Europe. Amazing to dig out that much rock.
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Great pictures and very interesting article. In the 70s I read a novel, probably from JMH Library about Gib being invaded by Spain and the Governor making and escape through this route. Anyone has read this book or has any idea as to author and title? I have made many searches over the years and no luck
ReplyDeletethanks for your comments. Benedict, we'll try and find the book you're referring to. Clive
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