The Alcala Arch

This is one of Madrid's most symbolic monuments. King Charles III of Spain ordered the building of the Puerta de Alcalá (Alcalá Arch) in 1778, and charged Sabatini with its design and execution. The idea was to replace the old and damaged archway of that time with another which would provide a more grandiose point of convergence for the avenues that meet there. Located right in the heart of the city in the Plaza de la Independencia Square, it is positioned at the beginning of the Calle Alcalá, very near the main entrance to the Retiro Gardens. The Puerta de Alcalá is designed in the style of a great Roman triumphal arch. It has five openings, of which the central ones are semicircular arches with interior vaulting, and the two on the end are lintel arches. Only the central arch is the same when seen from both sides, whereas the rest is different. The part facing out of the city has ten columns with Ionic capitals, while the inside has pilasters. However the same stone can be seen at the top of each side with the inscription "Rege Carolo III, anno MDCCLXXVIII". Today it is the most recognizable and best-loved image of Madrid, and has become the symbol of the city for both the local inhabitants and visitors.

DANI , RAFA Y ANDRES