Portal del Comercio (Gate of Commerce), Guatemala City

The Gate of Commerce, or Portal del Comercio, is a trade center in Guatemala City. The building is home to several vendors who sell shoes, clothing, furniture, electronics, and food, among many other items.

The history of the Gate of Commerce dates to 1788. It was used by the wealthiest families, as a location for trade. Once the shops were installed, they became more widely used by the general public. However, it was still primarily used by the wealthy because of the high-quality stores. It was also the location of the customs office, the Royal Post Office, and the Royal Tobacco Department.

A common story about the Gate of Commerce is that one of the first stores sold women's underwear. It was considered a great scandal at the time. It is said that many families refused to let their daughters pass in front of the building where underwear was on display.

The building was designed by architect Luis Monzon. The earthquake of 1917, which destroyed many buildings in Guatemala City, caused it to collapse. Reconstruction took place in 1924 with its new Colonial and Neoclassical styles.