Porte du Peyrou (Gate of Peyrou), Montpellier

The Gate of Peyrou, also called Triumphal Arch, can be found at the east end of the Peyou Park gardens in the center of Montpellier. It is almost fifty feet high and 59 feet wide. It was built in 1693 and designed by Francois Dorbay. Dorbay was perhaps inspired by the Parisian arch, the Gate of Dionysius, or even the Gate of Saint-Martin.

The Gate of Peyrou was dedicated to King Louis XIV, the "Sun King" of France. The Gate marks the entrance to the Royal Palace of Peyrou. It is within walking distance of the Saint-Clement Aqueduct offering a great view of the eastern part of the city.

The different stations of progress in King Louis XIV's reign are set into the facade of the arch. The shield and badge of the city of Montpellier are fixed at the top of the arch. There is a climb of 88 steps to the top of the Triumphal Arch. Every Sunday there is a flea market in the nearby Peyrou Square. One can shop here and think of the King.