The 100-ton gun in Gibraltar, often referred to as the “Great Gibraltar Gun,” is a massive coastal artillery piece that played a pivotal role in the defence of this strategic British Overseas Territory. A visit and guided tour to this impressive 100-ton gun is included in our Gibraltar Private Extended Tour and Gibraltar Private Complete Tour. This popular Gibraltar attraction is an iconic symbol of Gibraltar’s military history, reflecting the enduring importance of the Rock of Gibraltar throughout the centuries.

You can visit this historical 100-ton gun, located at Napier of Magdala Battery Gibraltar, that can be traced back to the late 19th century. During this period, the European powers were engaged in a race to build powerful coastal defences, and the British Empire was no exception. Gibraltar’s strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean made it a critical naval base and an ideal location for formidable coastal artillery. The 100-ton gun was part of a broader effort to fortify the territory and enhance its defences. Four of these guns were built, but today only two guns remain, one in Gibraltar, the other in Malta. An amazing weapon in its time and still is today.

The 100-ton gun itself is an imposing piece of military engineering. It was manufactured by the British company Armstrong Whitworth and Co. Ltd. and delivered to Gibraltar in the late 1870s. The 100-ton gun’s calibre was 17.72 inches, 100 Tons – Muzzle Loading – 32ft long barrel – steam powered able to penetrate 2 ft of iron, it’s 200lbs shell, reaching speeds of 1500 ft per second, with a firing range of around 8 miles (approximately 12 kilometers). The gun was mounted on a massive steel carriage that required 35 men to operate it. To prepare the hydraulic system several hours were needed to heat up the water that facilitated the system mechanism to operate. Once the system was hot and ready, every 6 minutes the gun could fire every 6 minutes.

The installation of the 100-ton gun on Gibraltar was a formidable task. Engineers and labourers had to carve out a substantial emplacement within the natural rock formations of Gibraltar. This emplacement, known as the “Emplacement A,” was constructed in the late 1870s specifically to house this colossal artillery piece. The gun was mounted on a central pivot, allowing for both elevation and traverse to aim at potential naval threats approaching the Strait of Gibraltar.

While the 100-ton gun was active and in service, it never saw active war combat, its mere presence contributed to the overall strategic significance of Gibraltar. Its role was more of a deterrent, as the sight of such a massive weapon was likely enough to discourage any potential threats. It also served as a testament to the determination and resourcefulness of the British Empire in defending its territories.

In the late 20th century, the 100-ton gun was decommissioned, and Gibraltar’s military significance shifted in response to changing geopolitical dynamics. Today, the gun stands as a historical relic and a Gibraltar tourist attraction, reminding visitors of the rich military heritage and strategic importance of the Rock of Gibraltar.

The 100-ton gun Gibraltar Attraction is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who built it and the strategic importance of Gibraltar throughout history. Its immense size, technical complexity, and historical significance make it a remarkable piece of military history that continues to capture the imaginations of those who visit this historic site. This iconic coastal artillery piece serves as a tangible link to Gibraltar’s past as a fortress of great strategic importance.

Book your Gibraltar tour now and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of the 100-ton gun, experiencing the unique blend of military engineering, historical significance, and the strategic importance of Gibraltar.

If you are planning on visiting Gibraltar for only one day, this Gibraltar Attraction is one of the most popular things to do in one day. Book your shore excursion or Gibraltar Tour for Cruise passengers if you are only passing by for a quick stop at Gibraltar Port.