Puerta de Alcala is one of a total of five royal gates that provided the opportunity to approach the city, with a height of 21m. It is located near the city center, in front of the entrance to Retiro Park. It faces east, and is also compared to the Roman triumphal arch. The gate was used for travelers coming from France or Aragon. King Carlos III was responsible for the construction of the gate, and the architect according to whose plan the gate was built was Francesco Sabatini, originally from Italy. At the same place where the gate was built, there was originally a gate from the 16th century built as part of the arrival of Queen Margarita from Austria. It was much smaller, and with the widening of Alcala Street, the need arose to widen the gate as well. Construction of the new gate began in 1764, and it opened its doors in 1778.
The Alcala Gate was built in the neoclassical style, and received the title of historical and artistic monument in 1976. It is one of the most important national monuments of Madrid. In the 19th century, it was truly one of the most prominent monuments, and various events were organized near it over time.
The gate was built after the fall of the Roman Empire, it was built before the Triumphal Arch in Paris, but of smaller dimensions. As you stand in front of the gate, you witness history - a really special feeling. It is no wonder that many visitors put this gate in the top 10 sights that should be seen in Madrid. There are numerous cafes nearby with a view of the gate, and it is very nice to be in this place at night. Although there is a roundabout nearby, this does not prevent photos that look like they belong on the postcard from being taken here. We recommend that you come in the morning if you want a photo with fewer people in the background.
There are paintings that emphasize wisdom, justice, moderation and courage on the arches of the gate.
There is an inscription "Rege Carolo III. Anno MDCCLXXVIII" on the gate, which translated means "In the name of King Charles III, 1778"
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
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Photo credit: Matt Dany
