Puerta de Alcalá
Monument · Jeronimos ·

Puerta de Alcalá

Monument · Jeronimos ·

Neo-classical gate with stone carvings, sculptures, near Retiro Park

Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null
Puerta de Alcalá by null

Information

Pl. de la Independencia, s/n, Retiro, 28001 Madrid, Spain Get directions

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Information

Static Map

Pl. de la Independencia, s/n, Retiro, 28001 Madrid, Spain Get directions

esmadrid.com
visitamadridoficial

Features

•Wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Dec 15, 2025

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"I enjoy the Puerta de Alcalá arch as a stately piece of 18th‑century architecture that provides lovely photo ops and pleasant views near Retiro." - Matthew Kepnes

https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/where-to-stay-madrid/
Puerta de Alcalá
@nomadicmatt
6,682 Postcards · 1,173 Cities

The 21 Best Things to Do in Madrid in 2025

"Next to El Retiro Park, the neoclassical granite Puerta de Alcalá was built in 1778 as a main city entrance; it has five arches with different designs on each side and predates the Brandenburg Gate and the Arc de Triomphe." - Matthew Kepnes

https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-things-to-see-madrid/
Puerta de Alcalá

G D (Savor the J.

Google
During our time in Madrid, we stopped by the Puerta de Alcalá, and it was absolutely stunning! ✨ Standing before this majestic monument, we couldn’t help but pause and take in its incredible history and beauty. It felt like stepping back in time while still being surrounded by the vibrant energy of modern Madrid. The area around it was lively, with people strolling, relaxing, and snapping photos. We spent a little while just admiring the intricate details and enjoying the atmosphere — it’s a perfect spot to slow down and appreciate the city. Such a beautiful landmark, and definitely a must-see when visiting Madrid. 🌆

Sam D

Google
Beautiful architecture and quite a sight to see. You can enjoy it from many local cafés or just walking along the roundabout. The flowers outside are also beautiful. You cannot go too close to the structure though, please be aware of traffic if walking out to take photos.

Akmal K.

Google
A Stunning Historical Landmark Puerta de Alcalá is a must-see when visiting Madrid. Its impressive architecture and rich history make it one of the city’s most iconic sights. Beautiful both day and night, it’s the perfect spot for a photo or a peaceful stroll through Retiro Park nearby. Truly a symbol of Madrid’s elegance and charm!

Ali H.

Google
Puerta de Alcalá is one of Madrid’s most iconic and historic landmarks. A magnificent monument with impressive architecture, located near El Retiro Park. It looks stunning at night with its beautiful lighting and is perfect for photos. There are plenty of nearby cafés where you can relax and enjoy your time. If you visit Madrid, make sure to stop by!

Marilyn S.

Google
This is a beautiful monument in Madrid, Spain. One of those places that are a “must see” when visiting this gorgeous and regal city. It was recently renovated, a work that took well over a year to complete, but so worth it. La Puerta de Alcalá is the starting point to one of Spain’s longest streets, La Calle de Alcalá. In this famous square, many events take place during the year, and it is right across from another “must visit” site in Madrid, El Parque del Retiro. The famous Calle de Serrano, known for its many chic boutiques and high end shops, also ends at this square. You can see the other very famous square when you are standing at this site, La Plaza de Cibeles, with its famous fountain and beautiful buildings.

Long T.

Google
I came there last yr when it was under construction, looked very bad. However, after 1 yr I came back there, it stunned me a lots, very very muy bien and beautiful. I highly recommend this place for tourists

Kissairis Basora M

Google
After so many visits to Madrid, I finally had the chance to see it in all its glory — two years later, and it was worth the wait. It had been under renovation during my previous visits, so seeing it fully restored, surrounded by blooming tulips in the heart of spring, was truly a spectacle. An iconic landmark full of history and elegance. Whether you pass by during the day or stop for photos at sunset, it captures the timeless beauty of the city like few other places.

Tracey J.

Google
An iconic Madrid landmark that perfectly captures the city’s elegance and history! The Puerta de Alcala is a majestic neoclassical gate that stands proudly at the entrance to El Retiro Park, and it’s even more stunning in person than in photos. The monument’s design and craftsmanship are impressive, with beautiful arches and intricate details that make it a true architectural gem. It’s especially picturesque when illuminated at night or framed by the seasonal flowers around Plaza de la Independencia. A must-see stop for anyone exploring central Madrid - it’s not just a gateway but a symbol of the city’s timeless charm. Perfect for photos, strolls, and a quick break to admire one of Madrid’s most beautiful sights!
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Qi M.

Yelp
very delicious! beautiful surroundings! 好吃!太好吃了!很出片!牛肉好吃 服务态度很漂亮,室外的话也都非常的温暖,因为它有火炉,而它离这个公园还有建筑都非常近,超级漂亮
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Dan A.

Yelp
Monument located in the middle of a roundabout next to the Parque del Retiro entrance. Interesting fact-was the first of its kind to be built after the fall of the Roman Empire so older than Brandenburg Gate and Arc de Triomphe. A large flower bed that changes seasonally provides a beautiful compliment to this impressive structure. A good photo opp area right in front of the flowers. Busy area with cars in the roundabout and people crossing the street. Another must visit when in Madrid.
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Jill R.

Yelp
this is a Cool and beautiful landmark at the roundabout in Madrid. The hop on and hop off buses were nearby and very convenient area to get around in.
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Bruce K.

Yelp
I passed this magnificent monument several times because it's located directly between my hotel and the Retiro Metro station. Located in the middle of the intersection that's not quite a roundabout, there's plenty of opportunity to see if from all angles as a pedestrian where Calle de Alcalá and Calle de Alfonso XII meet. And as it's the corner of the Buen Retiro park in the , Plaza de la Independencia, there are plenty of pedestrians. Inaugurated in 1778, the monument is older than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and older than Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. It was the first gate to entering Madrid from the nearby town of Alcalá de Henares.
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Niki B.

Yelp
Built in 1778, this huge "door of Alcala" is planted in the middle of a massive roundabout by Retiro Park. Upon looking it up, I learned that it was the first gate to enter Madrid from Alcalá de Henares. It's something you'll see when getting around Madrid, so no need to go find it directly, but it is a beautiful point of the city!
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Todd B.

Yelp
Great location with a nice cafes and lots of street activity and people watching. The oldest off the modern era gates in Europe. Built in 1778.
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Hansel B.

Yelp
This is really a lovely gate. Puerta de Alcalá stands at Plaza de la Independencia in Madrid. If you really want to get the history and good views I would recommend taking the Madrid Hop- on- Hop- off Tour bus. The deal is really getting a 2 day pass. Especially if you want to see the city all lit up at night. The original gate was built in 1599 as a welcome gesture to Doña Margarita de Austria, who was the wife of King Felipe III. When Carlos III came to power, he was not at all pleased with this city gate. He demanded that a much more flamboyant gate should be built, and called for architects to present their proposed plans. Did you know that because Calle de Alcalá is considered a cañada real, or a special route for moving livestock on a seasonal basis, flocks of sheep and other animals often used to pass through its portals??? Super Weird!!! The Puerta de Alcalá stands in the east of the city. It is in the middle of Calle de Alcalá, one of the oldest streets in Madrid, and which runs from the Puerta del Sol in the city center outwards to the town of Alcalá de Henares. There are 6 statues that adorn the top of the gate.
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Ellen L.

Yelp
also known as "alcala gate," this is another stately, historical piece of architecture in madrid. the name was chosen since this gate led travelers from madrid to the town of alcala de henares starting in the late 18th century, when it was erected by francesco sabatini. note that sabatini was the italian architect who also designed the horse's stables at the royal palace, and for whom the sabatini gardens were named for. this gate stands at the northwest corner of retiro park, in independence plaza. by day, you can see the gorgeous floral gardens that surround the gate, which makes for a beautiful, colourful picture souvenir. by night, the gate is lit up, has a grand presence, and can be seen from several blocks away. it is just steps away from the park's entrance, paseo del prado, and plaza de cibeles.
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Emily S.

Yelp
Very pretty gate. :) We stumbled upon it by accident I think. But anyway, it's a sight to see, and it won't take long to see it once you're here. Definitely try to fit this into your schedule when you're in Madrid!
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Denish G.

Yelp
In Madrid Spain 1599 was build Alcala. Door of alcala beautiful there's is so much to describe about all this locations I'm traveling so much history it will take me hours to describe everything I just want to check in to remember places I been. If you want more info about this locations please Google them. You may find many surprise. I just love history and all architecture so much to learn so much to see.
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Mark B.

Yelp
This is a great gate for a great city, My hotel was close to here. So I passed it often when I was walking around. It now sits in the middle of a round about and is lit at night. Others have written about its history so I will just say that it is cool and that it is useful as when you see it you know the direction to Gran Via....

Pablo M.

Yelp
Beautiful monument in the middle of Madrid, just beside the Retiro park, the Citty Hall, Cibeles square and fountain, the Prado museum and Gran Vía street. One may find nice restaurants and bars just beside. I would recomend the visit during both day and night.