Jebel Musa in Morocco & Mount Hacho near Ceuta are candidates for this southern half of this pair

On Monday, December 16, 2024, Jeopardy! challenged contestants with a geography-based clue in the Final Jeopardy round. The category was “Geography,” and the clue read: “Jebel Musa in Morocco & Mount Hacho near Ceuta are candidates for this southern half of this pair.”

What are the Pillars of Hercules?

The correct response was “What are the Pillars of Hercules?” This pair, rooted in both geography and mythology, serves as a gateway to the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. It is a symbolic reference to the two promontories flanking the Strait of Gibraltar—one on the European side and the other on the African side.

Exploring the Pillars of Hercules

The Pillars of Hercules have historical, geographical, and cultural significance. According to ancient mythology, they were created by the demigod Hercules during one of his Twelve Labors. Tasked with retrieving the cattle of Geryon, Hercules is said to have split a mountain in half, forming the Strait of Gibraltar and marking the ends of the known world. While mythology gave them their name, their existence has always had practical implications, serving as a navigational landmark for sailors for centuries.

Geographically, the northern pillar is widely agreed to be the Rock of Gibraltar, located on the southern coast of Spain. On the southern side, however, there has been debate for centuries. The two primary candidates are Jebel Musa, a striking mountain in Morocco, and Mount Hacho, near the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on the African coast. Both locations are prominent, but Jebel Musa is more commonly recognized due to its greater height and dramatic appearance.

Significance of Jebel Musa and Mount Hacho

Jebel Musa, often referred to as the “Mountain of Moses,” rises approximately 851 meters above sea level. Its towering presence and location directly across from Gibraltar make it the more popular candidate for the southern pillar. The mountain is steeped in history and legend, adding to its association with the Pillars of Hercules.

Mount Hacho, on the other hand, is located near Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the northern tip of Africa. Though smaller in stature than Jebel Musa, its strategic position at the entrance of the Mediterranean makes it a contender. Ceuta’s long-standing role as a military and trading hub has historically tied it to the maritime importance of the strait.

The Strait of Gibraltar: A Natural Gateway

The Strait of Gibraltar, which the Pillars of Hercules frame, is one of the most significant maritime chokepoints in the world. This narrow passage, about 13 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. For centuries, it has served as a crucial route for trade and exploration. The region’s historical importance also makes the landmarks on either side iconic symbols of cultural exchange and discovery.

While the Rock of Gibraltar and Jebel Musa are the most widely accepted pairing, the debate between Jebel Musa and Mount Hacho highlights the rich history and competing claims tied to this legendary geographical feature. Regardless of which location one supports, both play a vital role in the lore surrounding the Pillars of Hercules.

Conclusion: A Mythological and Geographic Marvel

The clue on December 16, 2024, shone a spotlight on one of the world’s most storied geographical landmarks. The Pillars of Hercules are not just a natural formation but also a symbol of exploration, mythology, and the intersection of cultures across the Mediterranean. Whether viewed through the lens of history, geography, or legend, these promontories continue to capture the imagination of scholars, travelers, and trivia enthusiasts alike.