Gibraltar and Morocco (426 m, 842 m) – Sites of the Pillars of Hercules
The Rock of Gibraltar on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and Jebel Musa on the northern tip of the Maghreb region of Africa have long been associated with each other. Flanking the highly strategic Straits of Gibraltar, these two mountains marked the end of the known world in ancient times. Together they were known as the Pillars of Hercules.
According to Greek legend, these two mountains were established when Hercules smashed down a mountain between them, thereby forming the Straits of Gibraltar. The Argonauts, may have sailed between the pillars during their voyage. According to Plato, the lost continent of Atlantis lay beyong the pillars.
Gibraltar, although effectively located in Spain, has been a British possession since colonial times. The British used it as an important military and naval base as late as the Second World War. It is now a popular destination for sunseekers. Jebel Musa, on the opposite side of the Straits, is located in Morocco, and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The two peaks are within easy site of each other across the water.
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