Peering out from Royal Anglian Way stands the now-derelict Rooke Battery. This artillery battery has a rich history on the west side of Gibraltar. Today we will explore Rooke Battery’s past.
Rooke Battery got its name from Admiral Sir George Rooke. He commanded the British fleet when Gibraltar became British in 1704. The battery itself was constructed between 1906 and 1907. It played a crucial role in Gibraltar’s defense.
Imagine this battery in its prime. It housed a single 9.2-inch Mark X gun on a Mark V mounting. An underground magazine and crew shelter were dug into the rock behind it for protection. These features shielded the battery from severe damage. The 9.2-inch guns were popular and installed in high locations such as Spur Battery and Breakneck Battery. The gun was still here in 1928.
Royal Anglian Way owes its name to the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Anglian Regiment. They refurbished Rooke Battery in August 1969. The path leads to the top of the Rock, passing both Rooke Battery and Hayne’s Cave Battery.
During World War II, Rooke Battery served a vital purpose. It became a Fire Command Headquarters. From here, officers could direct the fire of other batteries. Visitors can still see the remains of the searchlight. This searchlight scanned the seas during the war.
Even now you can see a plaque marked “1906” at Rooke Battery. The United Kingdom National Archives has references to Rooke Battery. These references include WO 78/5246.
In April 2022, a military training exercise took place here. Soldiers transited between Jews Gate and Rooke Battery. They used Queens Road and Royal Anglian Way. The soldiers were in full uniform but their weapons were unloaded.
Rooke Battery is more than just stones and metal. It represents Gibraltar’s strategic importance. It reminds us of the battles fought and the people who defended this land. So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history beneath our feet at Rooke Battery.