VISIT THE ALCALÁ GATEWAY

An emblematic symbol of Madrid
Built in 1778 at the request of King Charles III, the Puerta de Alcalá was designed by the architect Francesco Sabatini. Located in the Plaza de la Independencia, opposite the entrance to the Retiro Park, it is one of the first triumphal arches in Europe, predating the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

Why visit?
The Puerta de Alcalá is a must-see monument in the centre of Madrid. Its five majestic arches and sculpted decorations make it an ideal place to admire neoclassical architecture. Illuminated at night, it is a particularly photogenic sight.

A brief history and anecdotes
The gate was built to replace an old entrance to the city dating from the 17th century. Anecdote: it owes its name to the road that led to the nearby town of Alcalá de Henares. It is also celebrated in popular culture, notably in the famous Spanish song "La Puerta de Alcalá".

What can you do there?
- Admire Sabatini's sculpted details
- Photographing it day and night
- Take advantage of its proximity to Retiro Park
- Discover the nearby Plaza de Cibeles

Where is it?
📍 Plaza de la Independencia, 28001 Madrid, Spain
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice
- Within easy walking distance of the town centre
- The monument is on a busy roundabout, so take care when taking photographs
- Ideal to combine with a walk in Retiro Park
- Best time: in the evening, when the monument is illuminated

To discover around
- Retiro Park
- Plaza de Cibeles and Cibeles Palace
- Serrano Street and the Salamanca district
- Prado Museum

Audioguide
🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Puerta de Alcalá on History Guide City Madrid !
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