The Porte d'Ardon is a gate in Laon, with its current structure dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. It serves as an entrance into the ramparts of Laon and has been attested since the 10th century.
The gate was known as the porte royée because of its proximity to the royal palace of Laon. It is a double gate consisting of a gatehouse with a portcullis and used to have leaves. It was originally preceded by a barbican that has since disappeared.
In 1741, a gate was built in front of this one, carved by Charles Hottin, featuring pillars topped with lions and representations of the arms of France. This later gate was destroyed in 1858. Beneath the gate were a fountain and washing areas, which are the only ones to remain currently, though they were covered in the 19th century.
The gate was classified as a historic monument in 1909. It extends to the east towards the southern rampart and the promenade de la Couloire.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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