City Gates

Constructed in 1783, this eighteenth-century monument originally served as part of the land defenses and stood near the old quay. In 1952, the structure was moved from its original seaside location to the center of Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square. It is recognized as a significant piece of cultural heritage and serves as a primary historical landmark.

The monument is characterized by its triple-arch design, built entirely from local stone. The facade is decorated with the royal and city coats of arms, signifying its historical importance. These architectural details represent the transition of the city's defensive structures into ornamental civic monuments.

Often described as the city's "ex libris," the gates are a prominent example of triumphal architecture. The relocation in the mid-20th century integrated the arches into the modern urban layout of the square. The monument is located in a public square and is accessible to the public.