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Porte de France: Grenoble's Historic Gateway

Discover Grenoble's past at the Porte de France, a historic gate and monument offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.

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The Porte de France, a historic city gate in Grenoble, was erected in 1620 as part of the Bastille fortifications. Serving as a monument and a gateway, it marks the city's western entrance and provides a glimpse into its rich past.

A brief summary to Porte de France

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the Esplanade, located near the Porte de France, for scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Visit the Porte de France in the daytime to appreciate the architectural details and sculptures.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Bastille via the cable cars for panoramic views of Grenoble.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place Hubert Dubedout, walk west along Quai de France. The Porte de France will be visible on your left, about a 5-minute walk. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram line B or E to the 'Alsace-Lorraine' stop. From there, walk north along Boulevard Jean Pain, then turn left onto Quai de France. The Porte de France will be on your right. A single tram ticket costs €1.60 and is valid for one hour.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at 'Parking Porte de France/Esplanade' located nearby. Rates typically range from €0.50 for 10 minutes to €3 for an hour. Be aware that parking in the city center can be challenging.

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Discover more about Porte de France

The Porte de France, located at the western entrance of Grenoble, stands as a testament to the city's historical and architectural significance. Constructed in 1620 by the Duke of Lesdiguières as part of the fortification of the Bastille hill, it replaced the earlier Porte Perrière built in 1533. King Louis XIII passed through this gate several times between 1622 and 1630. The gate's exterior is adorned with bas-reliefs and military trophies sculpted by Jacob Richier, a favored artist of Lesdiguières. The alternating gray and white limestone gives the lower part of the gate a two-tone appearance. Until the late 19th century, the Porte de France controlled access to the city from the north, marking a major change in the lives of Grenoble's residents, who were no longer obliged to use the Chalemont or Cularo climbs on the flanks of the Bastille to exit the city. Since 1935, the Porte de France has served as a memorial to the city's fallen from 1914 to 1926, listing 1,722 names. The A48 motorway was completed in 1968, running a few meters from the gate. The Porte de France has been listed as a historical monument since September 18, 1925.

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