Puerta de Alcalá

We’re still in the beginning a new year and it’s always great to remember the travels we’ve done in the past. For me, Madrid was for sure one of these unforgettable trips. It’s a really nice place that offers lots of beautiful parks, gardens and monuments to appreciate around the city. The architecture is really interesting, and many of these places have strong connections with the history of the city and the country. Puerta de Alcalá is one of the most iconic ones among these monuments. It’s located in a very central area of Madrid on the street with the same name (Calle Alcalá) at Plaza de la Independencia.   In the past, it used to be one of the five gates that gave access to the village of Madrid. As the King Carlos III wasn’t at all pleased with the appearance of the old Puerta de Alcalá, he demanded that a much more flamboyant gate should be built on its place. The monument was designed by the italian architect Francisco Sabatini, and it’s one of his greatest works in Spain. In 1764 the original Puerta de Alcalá was demolished and the works started on this grand new gate that you can see on the picture below. The new Puerta de Alcalá was completed in 1769 and its official inauguration took place in 1778. In 1889, it became a square. It’s very close to the main entrance of the Parque del Buen Retiro. It’s also near to the most important museums, parks and major streets like Paseo de la Castellana and Gran Via. If you’re passing by, it’s a good idea to stop nearby to take a picture there!