As part of the continuing development and improvements within the Upper Rock, work has commenced to restore and upgrade the City Under Siege Exhibition, one of Gibraltar’s most historically significant heritage sites.

Located within an 18th-century building complex predating the Great Siege of Gibraltar, the site holds exceptional military and cultural importance. Among its most treasured features is original soldiers’ graffiti, with the earliest example dated to 1726. Over time, however, the building and its features have deteriorated, putting this unique connection to the past at risk.

To safeguard its legacy, Wright Tech has contracted a specialist restoration team to return the space to its former glory. Alongside this conservation work, a full upgrade of the interpretation is underway. Drawing upon original diaries from officers and their wives who lived through the Great Siege, the new exhibition will focus on the human story of Gibraltar’s defenders and their families, offering visitors rare, first-hand insight into daily life during one of Gibraltar’s defining historical events.

The redevelopment will also introduce new narratives, a display of artefacts, and the creation of a tranquil garden space for reflection and respite. Together, these enhancements will elevate the exhibition as a key addition to the Upper Rock, part of the Gibraltar National Park, enriching Gibraltar’s heritage offering for residents and visitors alike.

Future plans also include an archaeological dig in partnership with the Gibraltar National Museum, which will further uncover and preserve the hidden layers of history within the site.

Restoration works are expected to take 8–10 weeks to complete, during which the site will be temporarily closed.

Christian Wright, Director of Wright Tech, said:

“This space is an incredible connection to our shared story, linking us to the human side of a brutal conflict. It allows us to see the soldiers and their families not just as names in history, but as people with their own fears and hopes. We are excited to bring these stories to the fore and to create another space that the people of Gibraltar can enjoy and take pride in.”

Minister for Heritage, the Hon Prof John Cortes, who also has responsibility for the Upper Rock, said:

“When we issued the call for expressions of interest for site improvements, this was one of the key sites that we wanted improved. It’s a really interesting and attractive area and the work envisaged, to the standard of the much-acclaimed World War II tunnels, will bring it back to life for all to enjoy.”

The upgraded City Under Siege Exhibition will ensure this unique heritage site is preserved for future generations while offering a richer, more engaging visitor experience that deepens understanding of Gibraltar’s past.