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Monument · Burgos, Castela e Leão
Arco de Santa María
The former main gate of the wall, rebuilt in the 16th century as a triumphal arch with statues of El Cid, Count Fernán González and Carlos V, through which pilgrims enter the centre.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Arco de Santa María
The Arco de Santa María was the main gate of Burgos's medieval wall, facing the Puente de Santa María over the Arlanzón. In the 16th century the city rebuilt the gate as a triumphal arch in honor of Emperor Charles V, after a revolt against him, the Revolt of the Comunidades of Castile.
The riverside façade is a large stone screen shaped like a castle, with towers and battlements. In niches are statues of figures from Castile’s history: at the top, the Virgin and the city's guardian angel; in the middle, Charles V; and below, figures such as Count Fernán González, founder of Castile, and Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, El Cid.
Passing through the arch brings you to Plaza de Santa María and to the cathedral. It is the pilgrims’ route, who leave the Espolón and enter the old town that way. Inside the arch there are rooms used for exhibitions, such as the old meeting hall of the city council.
In front of the arch the Espolón begins, the tree‑lined riverside promenade, and from the other side of the bridge you get the best view of the façade.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15 to 30 minutes; longer if there is an exhibition open in the rooms.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the light falls on the riverside façade. At night the arch is illuminated.
How to get there
It is in the centre, next to the river and at the start of the Espolón, about a 5‑minute walk from the cathedral and 10 minutes from the bus station.
Tip
Cross the Santa María bridge and look back: that is the view of the arch with the cathedral’s towers behind it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Arco de Santa María
Who are on the statues of the Arco de Santa María?
Figures from the history of Castile: the Virgin, the city's guardian angel, Emperor Charles V, Count Fernán González and El Cid, among others.
Is the Arco de Santa María medieval?
It was the main gate of the medieval wall, but the current façade was remade in the 16th century as a triumphal arch in honor of Charles V.
What is the Espolón?
It is the tree-lined promenade along the Arlanzón, which begins in front of the Arco de Santa María, with benches, gardens and a bandstand.