Why is Puerta de Alcala important?
The monument has been restored five times since its original construction. In fact, it’s known for being one of the first triumphal arches constructed in Europe after the Roman empire fell, constructed before the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.
When was the Puerta de Alcala made?
1778
Erected in 1778 by Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, this triumphal gate was once the main entrance to the city. It was commissioned by King Charles III – over time nicknamed the Best Mayor of Madrid -, who was unimpressed by the gate that welcomed him when he first arrived in 1759.
How long is the Puerta de Alcalá?
Madrid in the late 18th century still looked like a somewhat drab borough, surrounded by medieval walls….
| Puerta de Alcalá | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 19.50 m × 43.00 m (64.0 ft × 141.08 ft) |
| Designation | Bien de Interés Cultural |
| Location | Plaza de la Independencia, Madrid, Spain |
Who designed the Puerta de Alcala?
Francesco Sabatini
Puerta de Alcalá/Architects
Who was the creator of the Puerta de Alcala?
Puerta de Alcalá. Description. Information. Erected in 1778 by Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, this triumphal gate was once the main entrance to the city. It was commissioned by King Charles III – over time nicknamed the Best Mayor of Madrid -, who was unimpressed by the gate that welcomed him when he first arrived in 1759.
What kind of arch is the Puerta de Alcala?
Designed by Sabatini, Puerta de Alcalá is a neoclassical triumphal arch made of granite. It was the first of its kind to be built after the fall of the Roman Empire, making it even older than Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate or the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
How big is the gate at Plaza de Alcala?
The gate has a large central semicircular topped arch, flanked by two similar arches. They are in turn flanked by two square lintelled gates, five in all.
When to book A puerta de Alcala tour?
We recommend booking Puerta de Alcala tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 72 Puerta de Alcala tours on Tripadvisor