Plaza del Reloj
Litoral
Puerta del Reloj, also known locally as Boca del Puente, is the principal city gate of Cartagena de Indias in Colombia, marking the historic entrance to the fortified colonial city. Constructed between 1704 and 1738 by Spanish military engineer Juan de Herrera y Sotomayor, the gate features a distinguished Postclassic facade with a half-point Roman arch flanked by Tuscan columns, reflecting the Spanish-American Fortification School's architectural style. Historically, it guarded the wooden drawbridge over the Caño de San Anastasio, which connected the walled city to the Getsemaní neighborhood and acted as a defensive barrier against pirate invasions. The gate is situated between the Plaza de Independencia and Plaza de los Coches and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of colonial military architecture in the New World. Its design is influenced by the facade of the Monasterio de San Francisco in Santo Domingo and follows the Vauban school's fortification principles, making it a significant cultural and historical monument in Cartagena.
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Tip: Visit Puerta del Reloj during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. While tickets are not required for the gate itself, consider exploring nearby museums and historic sites for a comprehensive experience of Cartagena's colonial heritage. Purchasing combined tickets for local attractions can offer discounts. Guided tours often provide deeper insight into the gate's history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •The gate is crowned by a clock added in the early 18th century, giving it the name 'Puerta del Reloj'.
- •It strictly follows the Vauban school of fortification, making it one of the best-preserved examples in the New World.
- •Originally, a drawbridge at the gate was raised to prevent pirate invasions during colonial times.
- •The gate's architectural style recalls the main church facade of the Monasterio de San Francisco in Santo Domingo.
History
Originally built as the 'Puerta del Puente' in 1631, the gate underwent significant reconstruction between 1704 and 1738 under Juan de Herrera y Sotomayor.
The wooden drawbridge it guarded dated back to 1540 and served as a vital connection and defensive mechanism for the city.
Over time, the gate became a symbol of Cartagena's colonial past and its strategic importance in protecting against pirate attacks.
The bastions of San Pedro Apóstol and San Juan Bautista once flanked the gate, enhancing its defensive capabilities, although some have since disappeared.
Place Guide
Main Archway and Clock TowerEarly 18th century
The central feature of Puerta del Reloj is its grand half-point Roman arch topped by the iconic clock, which was installed in the early 18th century. This clock tower not only serves as a timepiece but also as a symbol of the city's historical vigilance and colonial heritage.
Tuscan Columns and Facade1704-1738
The facade is flanked by two pairs of Tuscan columns and features an entablature with a frieze decorated with triglyphs, showcasing the Postclassic style favored by Spanish military engineers of the period.
Site of the Original Drawbridge1540 (drawbridge origin)
At the foot of the gate was a wooden drawbridge over the Caño de San Anastasio, which linked the walled city to Getsemaní. This drawbridge was raised in times of attack to prevent enemy access, playing a crucial defensive role in the city's history.
Contact
Phone: 222 142 229
