Covering some 28 hectares on the eastern side of Gibraltar, from sea level to the top of the rock, Gorham’s Cave Complex was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2016.
This steep, striking cluster of caves located on the eastern side of the Rock of Gibraltar is an exceptional testimony to the occupation, traditions, and material culture of Neanderthals and early modern human populations.
Gibraltar has a long-standing historical association with the former, as in 1848, the first complete Neanderthal adult skull was discovered here in a quarry.
Our closest extinct human relative, with many people living in Europe today having up to 2.5 percent Neanderthal DNA on average, the species lived in the Pleistocene Era between 30,000 and 400,000 years ago.
There has been extensive evidence of Neanderthal life provided by the caves, such as hunting birds and marine animals for food and the use of bird feathers and abstract rock engravings, indicative of their cognitive capabilities.
Gorham’s Cave Complex is significant in understanding this critical juncture of human evolution and adaptation. Having been archaeologically excavated over the last few decades, results have shown that Gibraltar was the last refuge of the Neanderthals over 30,000 years ago.
Through research and scientific debates, the archaeological and scientific potential of the caves continues to be explored, providing continuing opportunities for understanding Neanderthal life, including their capacity for abstract thinking.
Because of their archaeological sensitivity, the caves are subject to an annual quota of visitors, however, a viewing platform overlooking the complex provides spectacular views and interpretation of the site without damaging its fragile nature.
