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Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a British overseas territory located on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula at the entrance of the Mediterranean. A peninsula with an area of 6.843 square kilometres (2.642 sq mi), it has a northern border with Spain. The Rock of Gibraltar is the major landmark of the region. At its foot is the densely populated city area, home to almost 30,000 Gibraltarians and other nationalities.

It came under British rule in 1713 when Spain was forced to cede it under the terms of the Treaty of Utrecht. While Spain has attempted to reclaim Gibraltar in the past, the denizens have frequently shown reluctance to leave British rule. It's 2006 constitution means that Gibraltar largely governs its own affairs but relies on the UK for certain functions e.g. defence.

In the past the country has attracted businesses due to favourable tax conditions which have been phased out towards the end of the decade. Tourism accounts for a significant section of its economy, partly due to all goods and services being VAT free. They use the GBP as their unit of currency.

Gibraltar is small but still holds over 30,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated countries. These residents are from a very diverse background, with census results indicating only 25% are Spanish and the rest being immigrants from the UK, Italy, Portugal and other european countries. This has resulted in a large mix of languages and religions being practised there, although the only official language is English.

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