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Gibraaltar GIB ADM0·114 ADM1·52807 ADM2·52840
Description

Archaeologically rich limestone cave below Queen's Road on Gibraltar.

Pete’s Paradise Cave is a cave in the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar, located sixteen metres below Queen’s Road near Ape’s Den. Explored from 1966 by the Gibraltar Cave Research Group led by George Palao, it yielded four Neolithic-period skeletons, grave goods, stone tools, and notable rimstone pools and cave pearls.

Pete’s Paradise Cave is a cave in the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar, situated sixteen metres below Queen’s Road near Ape’s Den. It was discovered on 26 February 1966 by members of the Gibraltar Cave Research Group while abseiling down the Rock, and named after group member Peter Mann. The cave has a single entrance about one metre high and six metres wide. Inside are four main chambers: Nun’s Chamber at the entrance; Rimstone Chamber, with rimstone pools at different levels; Pearl’s Chamber, reached by crawling through a tight eight‑metre passage and containing cave pearls formed around grains of sand; and the Hall of Pillars, described as the best chamber and holding one of three perfect rimstones in Gibraltar. Excavations in 1966 uncovered numerous prehistoric artefacts, including shards of Neolithic pottery, bones, stone tools, chert engraving tools and an engraved bone bead. Bones of rabbit, ape, ox and many rodents were found. Four human skeletons, possibly Neolithic, were discovered, two female and two male, with at least two female skulls crushed and accompanied by clay pots, stone tools, a pendant and stone armlets and anklets. Surveys show many stalactites broken and pools disturbed, underlining preservation concerns.

Photos (1)
Ratings
Fame: 35 Wow: 40 Ease of Access: 25 Physical Demand: 30 Safety: 15 Tourist Density: 20
Fame 35
Small cave with limited international recognition; primarily known within Gibraltar and to archaeology enthusiasts, lacking broad global awareness.
Wow 40
Unique archaeological site with prehistoric artifacts but not a major tourist attraction or natural wonder; interesting for history buffs but lacks universal appeal.
Ease of Access 25
Located near Queen's Road in Gibraltar; accessible by foot from urban areas within the territory, though some climbing may be required to reach the entrance.
Physical Demand 30
Involves crawling through tight passages and navigating uneven terrain; suitable for experienced cavers but challenging for casual visitors.
Safety 15
Located in a stable region with good infrastructure; no significant natural or industrial hazards, though caution is advised due to cave exploration risks.
Tourist Density 20
Attracts local interest and some archaeological tourists; minimal footfall compared to major tourist sites but may see occasional visitors.
Location & Coordinates
36.133336, -5.35336
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Nearby Points (8)