Spain Madrid Madrid Monument

Puerta de Alcalá

About

The Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid is a majestic neoclassical monument located at Plaza de la Independencia, near El Retiro Park. Commissioned by King Charles III and designed by Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, it was inaugurated in 1778 as a grand entrance to the city from Alcalá de Henares. Made of granite and limestone, the gate features five arches—three rounded and two rectangular—each side adorned with distinct sculptural details. One façade displays war trophies and lion heads, while the other is crowned by the royal coat of arms and allegorical figures representing the cardinal virtues. As one of the first triumphal arches built in post-Roman Europe, it predates both the Arc de Triomphe and Brandenburg Gate. Over the centuries, Puerta de Alcalá has witnessed historic events and urban transformations, becoming a symbol of Madrid’s identity. Today, it remains a beloved landmark, celebrated in music, literature, and public life.

Madrid Spain

Location

The Puerta de Alcalá is a monumental neo-classical gate located in Madrid’s Plaza de la Independencia, near the city center. It was commissioned by King Carlos III and designed by Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, completed in 1778 as an impressive royal gateway. This iconic structure stands approximately 19.5 meters tall and spans across multiple arches, adorned with sculptural reliefs symbolizing virtues such as Prudence and Justice. Nearby, the Puerta de Alcalá is situated just next to the entrance of the vast and beautiful Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro), one of Madrid’s largest green spaces. The surrounding area is a bustling urban hub with easy access to several prominent landmarks including the Cibeles Palace and Fountain, the National Archaeological Museum, the Naval Museum, and Plaza de Colón. Calle de Alcalá, one of Madrid's oldest and longest streets, runs through this area, offering vibrant city life with numerous shops, cafés, and cultural venues. The site is well connected by public transport with nearby metro stations such as Retiro and Príncipe de Vergara.