Masonry coastal fortification on Gibraltar’s South Front with historic artillery.
Ragged Staff Flank is a masonry fortification on Gibraltar’s South Front. It continues the South Bastion’s seaward face across the South Front ditch, then turns south along coastal defences toward the New Mole. It contained Ragged Staff Gates, a defended enclosure with Ragged Staff Guardhouse, and parapet embrasures for artillery.
Ragged Staff Flank is a masonry fortification forming part of the South Front of Gibraltar’s fortifications. It continues the line of the South Bastion’s seaward face across the South Front ditch, then turns to form a flanking position facing south along the coastal fortifications leading to the New Mole, also known as the South Mole in Gibraltar Harbour. Within this stretch of defences, the Ragged Staff Gates were situated in the middle of the flank. These gates provided access to the Ordnance Wharf, which was located where the Dockyard North Gate used to stand. Behind the Ragged Staff Gates there was a defended enclosure, which was secured by the Ragged Staff Guardhouse, emphasising the area’s military and logistical importance within Gibraltar’s defensive system. The flank’s parapet contained three embrasures, providing openings for artillery. In 1779 the position mounted two 24‑pounder guns, making use of these embrasures. Under the rearmament plan of 1859, these 24‑pounder guns were replaced by 32‑pounder guns, reflecting changes in artillery requirements and the continuing military significance of Ragged Staff Flank as part of Gibraltar’s city walls and coastal defence network.
