Description of the attraction
The Pillars of Hercules is one of the main natural attractions in Morocco, located 18 km from the large port city of Tangier. The Pillars of Hercules are two large rocks between which the Strait of Gibraltar passes. One of the rocks, located on the side of the European continent, belongs to Great Britain, and the second, on the side of the African continent, the Jebel Musa rock, belongs to the state of Morocco.
Scientists are still completely unknown the exact history of the origin of the Strait of Gibraltar and the Pillars of Hercules. According to Greek mythology, the creator of this natural monument was the legendary Hercules (Hercules), who performed many heroic deeds. In the course of his wanderings, Hercules outlined the ultimate point of his travels, marking the end of the earth, which in ancient times became the main reference point for all sea travelers. Using the power donated by the gods, he pierced through the mountain, through which water gushed, and the Strait of Gibraltar was formed. And the two rocks remaining on its banks were named the Pillars of Hercules. According to Plato, it was behind the Pillars of Hercules that the mysterious Atlantis was located.
Both rocks are framed by deep caves, the creator of which, according to legend, was also the brave Hercules. In the Middle Ages, wealthy Europeans used to visit these caves for picnics. Nowadays, they are actively used by souvenir merchants, because every day a huge number of tourists come to see this magnificent natural wonder. During high tides, all caves are completely filled with seawater.
In these caves, which have been preserved since the Neolithic times, archaeological excavations were repeatedly carried out, during which many interesting exhibits were found, including primitive tools.
The caves offer a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea.
