Puerta del Sol

You’re standing before another monumental city gate. Obviously, when a city is surrounded by fortified walls, it needs multiple doorways—otherwise things can get quite complicated. These ramparts evolved throughout ruling dynasties and the city’s expanding population. As early as the 1st century CE, there was already a defensive tower here, linked to the Roman wall. During Muslim reign, it was transformed into a major square-shaped tower. By the late 14th century, it became one of Toledo’s main city gates. That’s when the large medallion you see above the entrance, set within the triangular pediment, was added. It depicts Saint Ildefonso receiving his chasuble, along with images of the sun and moon—which is how the gate earned its name: the Puerta del Sol, meaning Gate of the Sun. A door displaying a Mudéjar architectural style as well as Nasrid influences—the last Muslim dynasty on the Iberian Peninsula. Built in the 13th century by the Knights Hospitaller, it’s one of the few remaining examples of Moorish military architecture. On your right, you can see a square tower; and on the other side, a semi-circular one that features machicolations. Above the keyhole-shaped gap, you’ll find some interlaced Mudéjar arches, as well as the terrace at the top, which once offered panoramic views over the city. As you walk through the gate, look up to spot the hollow in the archway, where a metal portcullis would once have been lowered to seal the entrance. Now classified as a Property of Cultural Interest, this gate offers a leap through time, bringing you into the heart of Toledo’s historic center.