This area of Gibraltar has been given the local nickname of THE JUNGLE because of its overgrown and derelict state. It is however one of the most significant sections of Gibraltar’s defences. Sadly it can not be visited by tourists nor is it in any condition for tourist viewing. There is extensive tunnelling dating back to 1789 as well as surface fortifications covering the area. We hope the information and photographs in this section will help you understand the historical importance of the area.

The Northern Defences of Gibraltar lie above and to the rear of Laguna Estate. Some of the fortifications were originally Spanish and were later augmented by the British. This area cannot be visited by tourists due to its extremely poor state, however it is one of the most important sections of Gibraltar’s defences.

For the purposes of navigation we have split this extensive historical site into two sections. The photograph to the left shows a section of the 1865 Gibraltar model.

Yellow (surface features): This includes Hanover Battery, Castle defences, Princes Lines and Forbes Battery.

Red (tunnels): These tunnels are known as The Lower Galleries. They include Hanover Gallery, Bomb Proof Battery, Kings Gallery, Star Chamber, Commons Hall, St. Patrick’s Chamber, Orillon Battery and Queens Galleries.