History

The Cannon Pile is one of Gibraltar's most intriguing underwater archaeological sites and has long generated debate regarding its origin. Among the various theories proposed is the possibility that the cannon and associated shot derive from one of the floating batteries destroyed during the Grand Attack of 13 September 1782, one of the defining engagements of the Great Siege of Gibraltar. Although this remains an attractive hypothesis, it has yet to be conclusively demonstrated through archaeological evidence.

Recognising the site's archaeological significance, a detailed survey was undertaken in 1992 through a collaborative project involving Oxford MARE, the Gibraltar National Museum, the German maritime archaeology organisation DEGUWA, and the maritime archaeology programme at Bangor University. The investigation was directed by Mensun Bound, with valuable assistance provided by numerous local volunteer divers, including members of the Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC 888).

The site lies between approximately 25 and 29 metres below sea level. At its centre is a substantial concentration of cannonballs covering an area of around 256 square metres, from which several iron cannon project. A separate concentration of cannon lies immediately to the west, where numerous guns rest scattered across the seabed. Centuries of immersion have resulted in extensive marine concretion covering all of the surviving iron artefacts.

Although the association with the Grand Attack continues to attract considerable interest, archaeological interpretation remains cautious. Differences in the number, calibre and distribution of the cannon and shot, together with the absence of convincing structural remains from a vessel, mean that the site cannot presently be attributed with certainty to a specific shipwreck. An alternative explanation is that the ordnance represents military equipment deliberately discarded at sea after it had become obsolete or surplus to requirements.

Further archaeological investigation will undoubtedly improve our understanding of the site. Until then, the Cannon Pile should be regarded as an important submerged archaeological resource deserving careful protection and responsible visitation.
It is also worth noting that another archaeological site believed to represent one of the floating batteries associated with the Grand Attack was known from the 1960s. Limited archaeological investigations were undertaken during the following decade, but the site was ultimately lost beneath later land reclamation works during the late 1980s. Its disappearance highlights the importance of identifying, recording and protecting Gibraltar's surviving underwater cultural heritage wherever possible.

Further Reading

Those interested in learning more about Gibraltar's underwater archaeology and the archaeological investigations of sites such as the Cannon Pile are encouraged to read Underwater Gibraltar: A Guide to the Rock’s Submerged Sites, by Phil Smith and Darren Fa, available from the Gibraltar National Museum and selected booksellers.

The Cannon Pile, off Europa Point.