Arco de la Estrella

Located in the heart of the historic city of Cáceres, the majestic Arco de la Estrella (Star Arch) is the main gateway to its medieval quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 18th-century Baroque masterpiece acts as a portal between the bustling Plaza Mayor and the quiet stone streets of the old town. Spain is famous for its architectural treasures, and this arch is rightly considered one of the most original in the country due to its unique skewed design.

Star Arch. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The arch was built by architect Manuel de Larra Churriguera on the site of an older 15th-century gate. Its wide, slightly low-slung shape was specifically designed so that noblemen's carriages could more easily maneuver when turning toward nearby palaces. The inner part of the passage features a niche with a statue of the Virgin of the Star, from which the structure takes its name. An unusual star-shaped lantern illuminating the Virgin’s face adds a special charm to the place in the evening hours.

Today, the Arco de la Estrella is not just a passage in a wall, but a symbol of the city, blending the strength of medieval fortifications with Baroque elegance. It adjoins the famous Bujaco Tower, creating a harmonious ensemble that attracts thousands of travelers every year with its photogenic beauty and rich history.

For more information about visiting the old town and its sites, you can contact the local tourist office.

Walking beneath the vaults of the Arco de la Estrella is a mandatory ritual for every visitor to the city. Visitors can take a close look at the 18th-century stonework and see the niche with the image of the Virgin of the Star, illuminated by the vintage lantern. Don't forget to look at the city's coat of arms crowning the structure—it's a great chance to appreciate the details of Spanish heraldry.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless creative opportunities here. One side of the arch offers a panoramic view of the spacious Plaza Mayor, while the other looks out onto the narrow streets of the Old Town, bathed in sunlight or soft evening light. Scenes from the famous TV series "Game of Thrones" were filmed here, so fans of the saga can feel part of the King's Landing atmosphere.

After exploring the arch, it's worth climbing the adjacent Torre de Bujaco or walking along the ramparts to see the city from above. In the evening, when the lights come on, the atmosphere at the gate becomes particularly romantic, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll to end the day.

Finding this iconic landmark is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city of Cáceres, connecting the lively Plaza Mayor with the historic center. If you arrive by train or bus from Madrid or other major cities in Spain, the walk from the station to the arch takes about 15–20 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses run through the city center, stopping close to the main squares. If you are traveling by taxi, just ask the driver to drop you off at Plaza Mayor.

Drivers should keep in mind that vehicle access to the Old Town is restricted. It is recommended to leave your car in parking lots near Avenida España or close to Plaza Mayor and then walk for a few minutes. Strolling through these ancient streets is the best way to feel the medieval atmosphere.

The history of this site began in the 15th century when a passage known as the Puerta Nueva (New Gate) was cut through the city wall. This was done to connect the commercial Plaza Mayor with the private noble quarter. It was here in 1477 that Queen Isabella I of Castile took an oath of loyalty to the city's local rights, followed two years later by her husband, Ferdinand II of Aragon.

The Arco de la Estrella took on its modern appearance in 1726. Bernardino de Carvajal Toledo, owner of the neighboring Palacio de Toledo-Moctezuma, wanted his carriage to be able to reach his home more easily by making a sharp turn. The old gate was too narrow, so he commissioned architect Manuel de Larra Churriguera to rebuild it.

The master created a true engineering masterpiece in the Churrigueresque style. The arch has an unusual skewed shape (esviaje), which is both visually dynamic and functional. Inside the niche is a statue of the Virgin of the Star, the patron saint of travelers, illuminated by a star-shaped lantern mounted on a 15th-century Gothic bracket. On the outside, the arch is crowned by the majestic city coat of arms, granted by Queen Isabella II.

To simply explore the Arco de la Estrella, take a few striking photos, and admire the Baroque architectural details, 30–45 minutes is enough. However, remember that the arch is the main gateway to a fairy-tale medieval world.

If you plan to combine visiting the gate with a walk to Santa Maria Cathedral and visiting the nearby viewpoints on the city walls, allow about 1–2 hours for this area. This will let you leisurely soak up the atmosphere of one of the Old World's most beautiful cities.

Since the Arco de la Estrella is part of the city's architecture and is located on a public street, it is available for viewing 24 hours a day. You can admire it in the rays of the morning sun or under night illumination completely free of charge.

To visit adjacent sites such as towers or museums in the old town, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the city's official tourism website.

Exploring the surroundings of the Arco de la Estrella literally allows you to travel back in time. Every stone in this part of the city breathes history, and the concentration of architectural monuments per square meter is one of the highest in Europe.

A walk through the old quarter will reveal majestic palaces, ancient towers, and cozy squares that have often served as settings for historical films and TV series.