The Royal Gate.
“Located in the city center, between Reyes Católicos and Recogidas streets. In its public space, there is a large square that serves as the city’s nerve center. Beneath its pavement lies the old Puente de la Paja, at the point where the Darro River makes an angle before joining the Genil.”
“In the past, near this point, stood the Puerta de la Rambla, named so because of the sand deposits formed by the river during its uncontrolled floods. In the 16th century, this gate began to be called ‘del Rastro’ and ‘Real’ due to its importance as the main entrance to the city. However, in 1515, it was demolished due to its deterioration and rebuilt in 1610, at which time it was decorated with royal and city coats of arms.”
“This gate was also used to display the amputated limbs of criminals, and a notable example was the exhibition of the head of Aben Abó, the second king of the Alpujarras, with an inscription labeling him as a traitor: ‘This is the head of the traitor Aben Abó, no one shall remove it under penalty of death.'”
“In 1624, when King Philip IV visited Granada, the gate was richly adorned and acquired the name ‘Puerta Real’ in honor of the welcome it offered to the monarch. It was eventually demolished in 1790. This street and its history offer a fascinating glimpse into Granada’s past.”
