Puerta de Toledo (Zaragoza) facts for kids
The Puerta de Toledo was one of the twelve main gates in the old city walls of Zaragoza, Aragon (Spain). It stood near the San Juan de los Panetes church, close to where the Central Market is today. This gate was built on top of old Roman wall remains. It was taken down in 1842.
History of the Puerta de Toledo
The Puerta de Toledo had its beginnings in Roman times. During the time of Arab rule, it was called the Belkala gate or Bad al-Yanud gate. It guarded the city's west side. It was also used for royal parades and important processions coming from the nearby Aljafería Palace. This gate marked the end of the main Roman street of Caesaraugusta (the old name for Zaragoza). This street crossed the city from east to west.
In 1210, King Peter II of Aragon, also known as "The Catholic," ordered the grain market to move next to this gate. This was the beginning of what later became the Central Market of Zaragoza, which is still there today.
The gate was very impressive. It had two strong towers with battlements and a large arch. This arch could be closed with iron gates.
The Gate as a Prison
From 1440, the two towers of the Puerta de Toledo became a Royal Prison. Before this, the prison was located at the Puerta Cinegia. In 1556, it became known as the Cárcel de Manifestados. This was a special prison for political prisoners. It held people who were believed to be treated unfairly by the government. This special rule was part of old Aragonese laws. It was a bit like an early form of habeas corpus, which protects people from being held without good reason.
One famous person held here was Juan de Lanuza y Urrea. He was the Chusticia of Aragon, a very important legal official. In 1591, he was held at the gate and later died in the square in front of it.
The Market Square
In front of the Puerta de Toledo was the Market Square. This square had been moved there in the 12th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries, it was the most important meeting place in Zaragoza. There was a lot of buying and selling happening there. The square also hosted tournaments and bullfights. For many centuries, it was also the place where public punishments happened. This was meant to be a warning to others. Because of this, the area was also called the "Square of Justice."
After many discussions, it was decided to tear down the gate in 1842. This was because it was in very poor condition. Today, a tile on Calle Manifestación reminds people where the gate once stood.
See also
In Spanish: Puerta de Toledo (Zaragoza) para niños
