Background

Porte de Gand: A Historic Gateway to Lille

Explore Lille's history at the Porte de Gand, a 17th-century city gate and a landmark of the city's Spanish past, located on the vibrant Rue de Gand.

4.3

The Porte de Gand, also known as Porte de la Madeleine, is a 17th-century city gate in Lille, France, that stands as a reminder of the city's past fortifications. Built during the Spanish occupation, it is now a cherished landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Lille's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Porte de Gand

  • Rue de Gand, Lille, 59800, FR

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along Rue de Gand, known for its restaurants and lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the gardens surrounding the gate to see the remains of the fortifications added by Vauban.
  • Explore the nearby historic neighborhoods and discover local shops and markets.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Lille's Grand Place, walk southeast towards Rue des Chats Bossus. Continue onto Rue de la Monnaie until you reach Rue de Gand. Turn left, and you'll find Porte de Gand on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Ilevia public transport system serves the area. Take the Metro to the Cormontaigne station, which is the closest stop to Porte de Gand. From there, it's a short walk to the gate. A single ticket costs around €2.09.

  • Parking

    Finding parking near Porte de Gand can be challenging. Consider using Mobypark to find and reserve affordable parking spaces in the area. Alternatively, the Hôtel Mercure Lille Centre Vieux-Lille offers a covered parking garage, but spaces may be tight. Expect to pay around €120 per month for a parking space in the area.

Unlock the Best of Porte de Gand

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Porte de Gand

The Porte de Gand, originally named Porte de la Magdeleine, is a historic city gate in Lille, France, constructed between 1617 and 1621 during the city's expansion under Spanish rule. The gate was designed by master masons Pierre Raoul and Jean Le Mestre and inaugurated in 1625. It was later renamed Porte de Gand after the French Revolution. Over the centuries, the Porte de Gand has been preserved and strengthened, notably by Vauban in the 17th century. Today, it stands as a monument to Lille's history, with its architecture reflecting the style of the period. The exterior facade is more austere, while the interior facade features polychrome brickwork and stone detailing. The gate is located on Rue de Gand, a street known for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and shops. The area around the Porte de Gand offers visitors a chance to explore Lille's culture and cuisine. The gate is also near other attractions, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the city.

Popular Experiences near Porte de Gand

Popular Hotels near Porte de Gand

Select Currency