Puerta de Tierra, Fortification monument in Cádiz, Spain.
Puerta de Tierra is a fortified gate in Cádiz designed with a marble portico in the form of a triumphal arch that divides the old city from the newer parts. The structure contains a central vault, a tower, and an upper walkway accessible to visitors.
The gate was built in the 16th century and enlarged in 1574, then given its marble facade in 1756 as part of the city's defense system. This renovation reflected the military and architectural priorities of Cádiz during its period as a major port city.
Two marble obelisks dedicated to the city's patron saints, San Servando and San Germán, stand as symbols of local devotion and were imported from Genoa. These religious markers show how deeply connected the site is to the faith and identity of Cádiz residents.
The gate is open to visitors who can explore the interior, including the vault, tower, and upper walkway following its reopening in 2013 after restoration work. Wear comfortable shoes since stairs and internal passages may be uneven in places.
The structure housed an optical telegraph station from 1851 to 1857 that transmitted messages to the civil governor of the province. This system represented an early method of long-distance communication before electric telegraph lines became widespread.
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