UPDATE: New Location for the Registry Office Wedding Ceremonies in Gibraltar

Starting from December 15th, 2023, there's an exciting change for couples tying the knot in Gibraltar. The venue for Registry Office wedding ceremonies will now be the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery, nestled within the City Hall.

However, before you exchange vows in this beautiful setting, couples must still attend the Civil Status and Registration Office at Joshua Hassan House to finalise their paperwork with all their original documents and proof of stay for final verification.

The History of the Gibraltar City Hall

Built in 1819 by Aaron Cardozo, a prosperous merchant of Jewish Portuguese descent, this mansion initially served as his private residence in Gibraltar. Despite legal restrictions on property ownership for non-Protestants, Cardozo, a close friend of Lord Nelson, gained permission to construct this impressive three-story house, situated prominently in John Mackintosh Square. It replaced the former hospital, chapel of La Santa Misericordia, and a prison.

Following Cardozo's death in 1834, the mansion became the Club House Hotel under John Ansaldo's lease. In 1874, Pablo Antonio Larios, a wealthy Gibraltarian-born businessman, purchased the property and oversaw its comprehensive renovation. Eventually, it passed to the Gibraltar colonial authorities in 1922, initially intended as a post office but later becoming the Gibraltar City Council's headquarters.

The building played a significant role in Gibraltar's telecommunications, housing an automatic telephone exchange in 1926. Over time, it underwent expansions, including a new floor and a northern extension, altering its original design. Today, this historic structure is home to the Mayor's Parlour and the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery.

In June 2015, the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery opened its doors. The establishment of this gallery was a long-held dream of Gibraltar's art community, particularly championed by the renowned local artist Mario Finlayson BEM, who was a leading advocate for a National Art Gallery to showcase the work of talented local artists since the formation of the Calpe Artists Society in 1954.

So, as you plan your Registry Office Wedding in Gibraltar, remember that you're not just celebrating your love in a stunning venue; you're also becoming a part of Gibraltar's rich history and artistic heritage. It's a truly unique and meaningful way to begin your journey as a married couple.

Crafting Unforgettable Celebrations: Monica Coumbe – Gibraltar's Premier Wedding Planner

Monica Coumbe, notably featured on 'Gibraltar: Britain in the Sun', has become the go-to wedding and events planner, making celebrations exceptionally memorable, as detailed by Belinda Beckett.

Feeling somewhat frazzled and a tad weary, Monica jests about her hectic demeanour as she hastily pushes a Morrisons trolley filled with delicacies to the stars’ dressing rooms at the Gibraltar Music Festival. The cart is laden with assorted requests, from apple cider for Lawson to Haribos for Olly Murs and miso soup for Emeli Sande, all while being observed by a troop of Barbary macaques from the rooftops.

“Blimey! There’s a monkey, and I’ve got bananas!” exclaims Monica as she races in high heels, dodging inquisitive apes. It’s a humorous moment from the Channel 5 reality show that has endeared her to nearly two million British viewers. Even the programme’s sardonic narrator, Timothy Spall, is an admirer.

“It’s fate; there’s always a bit of a kerfuffle whenever I’m filmed!” she exclaims. Monica’s televised endeavours have generated substantial PR for her wedding and events business. Her venture has orchestrated grand affairs for prestigious firms like Barclays Private Banking and Interbuild.

Monica's journey has been marked by distinguished events, including high-profile weddings like that of John Galliano’s niece, Elizabeth, and Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo.

The allure of Gibraltar as a wedding destination has soared, owing to its hassle-free proceedings and stunning venues. Monica’s clientele is diverse, from Scandinavia, America, and Australia. Her adaptability in organising varied wedding events, whether in a church or al fresco, has made her a popular choice.

“People are opting for grander celebrations in Gibraltar,” Monica observes, noting the evolving trends in wedding styles. However, the essence remains the same, a profound connection with the couples and a dedication to making their day splendid.

Monica, reminiscing about her own experiences, envisions her dream of an Indian wedding on the beach, paying homage to her heritage, and recounts her thrilling experiences catering to various stars at the Gibraltar Music Festivals.

For further details, you can reach Monica Coumbe at 5 Convent Place, Gibraltar, or at 0035058009685 or info@hourweddings.com.