Inside what’s considered worldwide to be one of
the Pillars of Hercules, exists a geologists dream. To
date, there are more than 150 limestone caves and
caverns that have been discovered inside the Rock
of Gibraltar. The best example of which is Lower St
Michael’s Cave, after its incredible discovery during
World War 2. It is estimated to have been sealed
for 20’000 years before being blasted open by Ro-
yal Engineers, excavating an entrance to the lower
level of St Michaels for the use of an ungrounded
hospital. It exists in its original and natural state,
with minor additions such as ropes and lights that
were installed for safety measures. In comparison
to St Michaels Cave, which displays a spectacular
lighting system, themed music and a stage area for
hosting concerts, entering Lower St Michaels Cave
is like stepping back in time.
The adventurist team at OTWO & I were to invi-
ted to a guided tour inside the depths of the Rock’s
most visited attraction. We met above the entrance
of the cave in daylight and our lovely guide provided
us with safety helmets along with head torches,
that we could also wear around our necks for ex-
tra light. Greeting everyone I could already feel the
groups excitement in anticipation of the experience.
On the walk down, admiring the clear sky views of
Africa and Southern Spain, it felt like we were ed-
ging nearer to an unforgettable experience inside
the ancient history of this Rock. The guide opened a
big metal door, the sound of which echoed into the
long dark and narrow chamber ahead. I took one last
look at the branches, trees and light around the en-
trance, not only feeling appreciation for their detail,
but also holding onto the moment before entering a
darker and completely different atmosphere.
We walked carefully and closely together through
a dimly lit tunne, noticing a change in the density
of the air. It felt clearer and cooler. After about 50
meters we could see what appeared to be old tracks
for rail wagons used during the war, followed by lar-
ge cave opening. The space held an area where we
could leave our belongings and adjust our clothing,
but this lower chamber previously served as a hospi-
tal, for soldiers, whilst also improving air circulation
within. The open space echoed sound, amplifying
our voices as we spoke. The only lasting natural
light glowed from the entrance door before the gui-
50
OTWO 09 / APRIL 2020
OTWO 09 / APRIL 2020
de closed it shut. We gathered and were humored
by the charisma of our guide. What to expect, what
not to expect, and the start of some very believable
myths that would playout throughout the tour. We
were eased by his awareness and experience having
guided many people into the caves, as some of us
had never participated in such an activity. For some,
nerves came from heights, for others small spaces,
but being with the guide helped us feel encouraged
and centered. He established a procedure of safety
and awareness, one where we were could all follow
and support each other. The chain was removed and
we commenced our decent into the caves.
The first official archaeological excavation of St
Michael’s Cave was carried out by the Governor of
the military prison, Captain Frederick Brome, com-
mencing in April 1863 and continuing until December
1867. He discovered numerous prehistoric artifacts
such as stone axes and arrow heads, shell jewellery,
and bone needles as well as large collections of po-
ttery. But it was during 1942 that these astonishing,
untouched deeper system of caverns of Lower St
Michaels Cave were discovered. During the war, the
tunnelling commenced after it was feared that in the
event of an airstrike, a second exit would be vital.
What was revealed could be comparable to fictio-
nal depictions of a magical underworld. What gives
Lower St Michael’s Cave it’s extraordinary unique-
ness, is the fact that it is home to many of the known
speleological formations. The ones that were mostly
noticeable were formed by precipitations from a ca-
ves ceiling. A stalagmite being an upward growing
mound of mineral deposits that have precipitated
from water, dripping onto the floor of the caves.
Most have rounded or flattened tips. It’s opposite,
a stalactite, is an icicle shaped formation that hangs
from the ceiling of a cave. There are others, such
as rim stone, helictites, columns, coral rocks, flows-
tone, straws and curtains, to name a few of these
amazing natural cave formations.
As we climbed through different stages of the
tour, holding onto the slippery walls and gripping
onto rock edges with our non-slip soled shoes, it was
evident how much our helmets and casual attire ser-
ved their purpose. The tour literally involves getting
stuck into the experience. I vividly remember feeling
a sense of achievement and a rush of adrenaline
51