Porte Saint-Pierre, Classical city gate in Pontarlier, France.
Porte Saint-Pierre is a classical city gate in Pontarlier with a large central arch and two side passageways framed by stone walls. A stone bell tower crowns the structure, housing a clock and bell that reflect the 18th century French architectural style.
The gate was built between 1771 and 1773 in response to a devastating city fire of 1736 and replaced earlier fortifications. It underwent major renovations from 1895 to 1898 to preserve and improve its classical structure.
The gate displays only two parts of the French national motto on its stone facade, with Liberty and Equality inscribed but Fraternity notably missing from the text.
The gate stands at the entrance to Pontarlier's center, marking the historical boundary between the inner city and its surroundings. As a protected monument, visitors can admire the exterior but interior access is typically not available.
Engineer Jean-Claude Éléonor Le Michaud d'Arçon added two fountains along the side passages at the request of local residents. These practical water sources were a response to the gate's role as a busy passage point through the city.
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