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Why are most of Gibraltar’s homes built on the western side of the Rock?
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Gibraltar
The rock of Gibraltar.
Most of the homes in Gibraltar are built on the western side of the Rock of Gibraltar because the terrain there is more gradual, allowing for the development of the settlement. In contrast, the eastern side of the peninsula features sheer, inaccessible cliffs that front the sea, making it unsuitable for housing.1
The residential area on the western side is characterized by tier upon tier of houses that extend approximately 300 feet (90 meters) above the old defensive walls. Because the available space on this narrow peninsula is limited, the territory has historically expanded its land area by reclaiming ground from the sea using material excavated from tunnels within the Rock.12