Ella's Escapes

Strait of Gibraltar
35.95° N, 5.64° W

   

Strait of Gibraltar

The Strait of Gibraltar is a narrow waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates Southern Europe from Northern Africa. This strategic and historic passage has fascinated travelers, historians, and geographers for centuries.

The Strait of Gibraltar is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) wide at its narrowest point, with a depth ranging from 300 to 900 meters (984 to 2,952 feet). It lies between Spain to the north and Morocco to the south. This strategic location has made it a critical passage for maritime traffic for thousands of years, serving as a gateway between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic.

Throughout history, the Strait of Gibraltar has been of immense strategic importance. It has been a key point of control for various empires and civilizations, from the ancient Phoenicians and Romans to the Moors and the Spanish Empire. The British captured Gibraltar in 1704, and it remains a British Overseas Territory to this day. The Rock of Gibraltar, a prominent landmark in the area, has served as a military fortress and symbol of strength.