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Porte de Gand: Lille's Historic Gateway

Explore Lille's historic Porte de Gand, a 17th-century gateway showcasing the city's rich past and architectural beauty in the heart of Vieux Lille.

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The Porte de Gand, also known as Porte de la Madeleine, is a 17th-century city gate in Lille, France, that once served as part of the city's Spanish fortifications. Today, it stands as a beloved landmark, showcasing the city's rich history and architectural beauty.

A brief summary to Porte de Gand

  • Rue de Gand, Lille, 59800, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Rue de Gand for local shops and cafes.
  • Check out local events or markets that may be happening in the area for a unique experience.
  • Explore the remains of Vauban's 17th-century fortifications in the gardens surrounding the gate.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Lille Flandres Train Station, exit the station and head southwest on Rue de l'Hôpital Militaire toward Rue de la Gare. Turn left onto Rue de la Gare, then right onto Rue de la Monnaie. Continue until you reach Rue de Gand, where you will turn left. Porte de Gand will be on your right. This route is approximately 10-15 minutes on foot.

  • Public Transport

    From the Republique Beaux Arts metro station, take Bus Line 14 towards 'Lille, Gare'. Get off at 'Gare Lille Flandres' stop. From there, follow the walking guidance from the station to Porte de Gand as described above. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Lille. A short taxi ride from the city center or train station to Porte de Gand will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.

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Discover more about Porte de Gand

The Porte de Gand, or Porte de la Madeleine, is a significant historical monument located on the eastern edge of Vieux Lille. Constructed around 1620 during the Spanish period, as part of the city's expansion, it originally functioned as one of Lille's city gates. The gate was designed by master masons Pierre Raoul and Jean Le Mestre and inaugurated in 1625. Initially named Porte de la Magdeleine, it was later renamed Porte de Gand after the French Revolution. Over the centuries, the gate has undergone several modifications, including reinforcement by Vauban in 1668. While the exterior has lost some of its original features, its imposing presence still reflects its role in the city's defenses. The inner facade, constructed with polychrome bricks in a herringbone pattern, adds a touch of elegance to the structure. Today, the Porte de Gand stands as a symbol of Lille's history and architectural heritage. Visitors can admire the gate's architecture, stroll around its base, and soak in the atmosphere of the surrounding area. The nearby Rue de Gand offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect starting point for exploring Lille's cultural landscape.

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