Places for Hire for private use

The Dell

This intimate, sub-tropical garden was designed by Guiseppe Codali, the head gardener and horticulturist of the Alameda during the end of the 19th Century, a Genoese who was brought to Gibraltar specifically to work in the gardens. His Italian influence can be seen in the terracing and general layout of this area. The Dell, a small deep natural hollow, in the heart of the Alameda has a bridge across the centre covered by a combination of purple bougainvillea, Lantana and Golden Chalice Vine.

Although the gardens were opened in 1816, The Dell was not completed until eight years later. It was inaugurated on the 24th September 1842, and re-inaugurated 150 years later to the day. Through a donation from Lionel J Codali grandson of Guiseppe Codali the two fountains were refurbished. One made out of wrought iron and the other of terracotta. A further donation from National Westminster Bank, also in 1992, resulted in a new Castle and Key motif – the coat of arms of Gibraltar – appearing in The Dell. A great deal of work was carried out by key garden staff to bring it back to standard after years of neglect, adding water features of the staff's own design. The area is now closed to the public and for nearly two decades until 2010 was looked after by one dedicated gardener, Jimmy Catania,to which the area was dedicated on his 80th birthday. All monies collected from the hire of The Dell go into maintaining the Italian Garden, as is the case with all other contributions and donations from different areas.

The Dell is the main venue for weddings. Wedding photographs may also be taken at a nominal fee. The Dell accommodates comfortably a small number of people and we welcome all ideas for making use of this unique exotic venue.

The Open Air Theatre

Conditions for Hire

The Open Air Theatre is available for hire. The Theatre has a large stage, grassed terraces, where a maximum of 450 chairs can be placed, and a large pond between the seating area and the stage over which a catwalk or bridge can be extended.  The Theatre is suitable for theatrical performances, concerts, receptions and other outdoor events. Hire charges are customised to the user's requirements. Lighting and basic sound equipment can be provided.

The main aim of the Theatre is to promote the Performing Arts in Gibraltar, and priority will therefore be given to such events over private receptions and parties.

For more information please contact the Gardens’ Information Office on 00350 20041235 or events@gibraltargardens.gi.

The Lion's Pond

In 1984, Lions' Club member, John Zayas, commenced this project as part of the club’s commitment to improve the environment and to serve as a recreational area for the public. It was inaugurated on the 31st May, 1986. This very shady, tranquil area has a pond on one side and narrow paths, lined with shade loving plants, meandering through the back. The new paving at the front was laid by 234 Squadron Royal Engineers (V) in June 1997.

Another beautiful spot for after wedding drinks or a small gathering with friends.

A wedding reception at the Lions' Pond

Molly Bloom Circle

James Joyce (1882-1941) is probably Dublin’s best known writer. His Ulysses (1922) parallels Homer’s Odyssey, and Molly Bloom in Ulysses is equated with Penelope in The Odyssey. The last chapter Ulysses, one of the most renowned pieces of writing, is dedicated solely to her meanderings and musings. Molly was raised in the military atmosphere of Gibraltar by her father and never knew her mother. Molly is thus associated with the “hot-blooded” Mediterranean regions. Yet Molly considers her own childhood to have been normal, outside the dramatic entrances and exits of young, good-looking soldiers going off to war. She seems to organise her life around men, with very few female friends. She was a visitor to these Gardens.Material courtesy of the James Joyce Centre.

                                                The Molly Bloom Circle