The Ministry for Heritage is proud to announce a ground-breaking initiative to diversify Gibraltar’s historical narrative through the installation of interpretation panels commemorating significant figures from its rich and varied past. These memorials will highlight individuals from Gibraltar’s ancient history, Islamic period, Castilian era, and the last 300 years of British rule, offering a comprehensive representation of our multifaceted heritage. 

This initiative balances past emphasis on military figures by showcasing other historical contributions to Gibraltar’s culture and history. While the Evacuation Memorial currently stands as the sole major commemoration of local heritage, these new panels will provide a more inclusive perspective, celebrating figures from all walks of life who have shaped Gibraltar’s identity.

 Among the notable individuals included are:  

1. King Argantonio, the last ruler of Tartessos, renowned for his wealth, diplomacy, and cultural achievements.  
2. Tariq ibn Ziyad, the Berber general who led the Islamic conquest and whose legacy is tied to Gibraltar’s name.  
3. The Guzmán Family, who played crucial roles in Gibraltar's history, including the First Siege of Gibraltar in 1309 and the reconquest of Gibraltar in 1462. 
4. Juan Mateos, a saintly figure who transformed his home into an infirmary for the poor and sick in the 16th century.  The same location eventually became St. Bernard's Hospital, which served the community until it was relocated in 2005.
5. Dorothy Ellicott, Gibraltar’s pioneering historian and the first woman elected to the City Council.  
6. Pepe Román, the composer of the iconic patriotic song Llévame Donde Nací.  
7. Albert Fava, a champion of workers’ rights in Gibraltar.

These panels celebrate a diverse array of achievements, ranging from historical and royal influence to artistic expression, humanitarian contributions, and political leadership in the modern era. The individuals selected for commemoration reflect the Ministry’s efforts to be representative and varied, following international guidelines requiring that honourees must have been deceased for at least ten years. While not all notable figures could be included, these panels are part of an ongoing project, with opportunities to update and expand the roster of commemorations in the future.

The panels will be mounted on visually striking, durable stands designed to complement Gibraltar’s urban landscape. The content can be updated or enhanced to reflect new research or public feedback, ensuring the memorials remain relevant and adaptable over time. To enhance accessibility and engagement, the locations of all memorials will be GPS mapped and available on the Ministry for Heritage’s website, together with the information they contain: https://www.ministryforheritage.gi/heritage-and-antiquities/category/memorials-77

The Minister for Heritage, the Hon John Cortes, said: “This project is a testament to Gibraltar’s commitment to honouring its entire history, from Neanderthals to the very recent past, not just a single narrative. By celebrating figures from all eras and backgrounds, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of our heritage and create a legacy upon which future generations can continue to build.”