'Calpes Defensori', or 'To the defender of Gibraltar', , reads the inscription on the sadly neglected tower in Heathfield Park. Brigadier General George Augustus Elliot, who lived at the big house here, held the Rock against a siege by France and Spain between 1779 and 1783.

 

He was later created Baron Heathfield. Francis Newbury built this three-storey circular tower, 55ft high, to commemorate his exploits.

 

According to a contemporary report in The Gentleman's Magazine, the tower's three apartments were 'to be fitted up in a Gothic style, and ornamented with views of Gibraltar and the operation of the siege'.

 

The letters of 'Calpes Defensori' were said to be made of metal from the guns of the Spanish floating batteries.

Access

In the (private) grounds of Heathfield Park. Best seen from the B2203

 

 

 

 

 

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