Puerta del Sol (Sun Gate), Toledo

Even before the Romans, the city of "Toletum" was known to be small but well fortified by its location. The Romans improved the city's defensive ability with secure walls and a series of portals. The Moors further added to the town's security. To this day, the city can only be accessed through its many gateways.

The Sun Gate (Puerta del Sol) was built by the Knights Hospitalers ( the medieval and early modern Catholic military order) in the 14th century. The gate is located on the steepest hillside of the town. There was not much need for walls here. The high cliff face overlooks the Tagus River. If the climb is too stiff, a ride on the Zocoloco Touristic Train will take one there.

The Hospitalers founded Saint John's Hospital in Jerusalem. They founded and managed other hospitals in the Holy Land and throughout Europe. There is a bas-relief medallion of the Sun over the Moorish-style arch. The arch medallion also depicts the ordination of Saint Ildephonsus, the patron saint of Toledo.