Jabal Al Tariq: You may be surprised to hear this, but a small area located in the southern tip of Spain is not actually Spanish. It is part of the United Kingdom. Today this place is known as Gibraltar but its real name is Jabal Al Tariq. Its interesting history is more than 1000 years old. From ancient conquests to today’s geopolitics, Gibraltar is one of the most unique places in the world.

What is Jabal Al Tariq?

The word Jabal Al Tariq comes from Arabic language. In this, Jabal means mountain and Tariq is taken from the name of Muslim commander Tariq Ibr Ziyad. Its literal meaning is the mountain of tariqa. In 711 AD, Tariq Ibr Ziyad crossed the sea from this place and started his conquest of Spain. Over time, linguistically, Jabal Al Tariq changed to Gibraltar.

Why is Gibraltar part of the United Kingdom?

Despite being connected by land to Spain, Gibraltar is a British overseas territory. Its story starts from 1713. Spain handed over Gibraltar to Britain under the Treaty of Utrecht. Even today Spain continues to assert its rights over this area. But Gibraltar is occupied by Britain. Here it has its own government and it has complete freedom in internal matters. However, defense and foreign affairs are handled by the United Kingdom only.

control of world trade

It is situated at the mouth of Gibraltar Strait. This is a route that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Because of this, it has become one of the most strategically important choke points in the world. A major maritime trade of the world passes through here. Historically it was also considered one of the pillars of Hercules.

a distinct area

Although it is connected to the United Kingdom, Gibraltar has created its own identity. It has its own parliament. It uses the Gibraltar pound as its currency and people here commonly speak both English and Spanish. The local people here also speak a unique mixed language called Lanito. This language includes words from many European languages.

After the separation of the United Kingdom from the European Union, the situation of Gibraltar became more complicated. However, special arrangements have been made to keep its border with Spain open to a large extent so that the movement of people and goods can continue without any hindrance.

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