Charles V Wall, Gibraltar

The Charles V Wall, originally known as the St. Benedict's Wall (Muralla de San Benito), is a 16th-century defensive barrier forming part of Gibraltar's fortifications. Constructed in 1540 and fortified in 1552 by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, this wall remains mostly intact. It stretches from the South Bastion, which once stood at the water's edge in the harbor, all the way to the highest point of the Rock of Gibraltar.

During its construction, the primary concern was the threat posed by Barbary pirates to the city. In September 1540, Gibraltar endured an attack by corsairs led by Piali Hamet, a captain under Barbarossa. The town was looted, and prominent citizens were taken captive. The Muralla de San Benito, later known as the Charles V Wall, was erected in 1540 to protect The Rock against future assaults from the south.

The lower segment of the wall ascends from the South Bastion, formerly located at the harbor's shoreline, up to Prince Edward's Gate at the base of a steep cliff. It features the Puerta de África (Gate of Africa), which is guarded from above by the Flat Bastion.

Recently, the upper portion of the Charles V Wall underwent restoration efforts by the Bonita Trust in collaboration with the Government of Gibraltar. Currently, the wall is well-preserved, equipped with a handrail, and allows visitors to walk along its entirety, from the base to the summit of The Rock.