Boathoist Cave facts for kids

Boathoist Cave, also known as Bulman's Cave, is a very large sea cave. It is located on the southeast side of Gibraltar, which is a special territory belonging to the United Kingdom.

About Boathoist Cave

Boathoist Cave can be reached in two ways. You can get there by boat from Gibraltar's east coast. Or, you can enter it from inside the famous Rock of Gibraltar. The cave is so big it even has a sandy beach inside! This beach was formed by sand and small pieces of rock blown in through the cave's entrance.

A Secret Escape Route

During World War II, which was a very big global conflict, special steps were built inside the Rock of Gibraltar. These steps led directly into Boathoist Cave. The idea was for the Governor of Gibraltar (who was like the leader of Gibraltar at the time) to use these steps as a secret escape route. If enemy forces, known as the Axis powers, had invaded Gibraltar, the Governor could have escaped through the cave. From there, he could have been taken away safely by a waiting submarine. This plan was part of a secret operation called "Operation Felix."

Home to Ancient History

Boathoist Cave is also important for understanding ancient history. It is one of ten special places in Gibraltar that show clear signs of Neanderthals. Neanderthals were a type of ancient human who lived many thousands of years ago. Other important caves in Gibraltar that show evidence of Neanderthals include Vanguard Cave, Gorham's Cave, Ibex Cave, and Bennett's Cave. These sites help scientists learn more about how Neanderthals lived.