Arco dei Gigli in Perugia

The Arco dei Gigli is a remnant of the Etruscan city wall in Perugia. Some believe this site was once the location of the ancient Porta Sole, mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the Paradiso. While the original gate likely sat higher on the colli del Sole, the name has been transferred to this opening over time. The arch itself was transformed into a pointed arch in the 13th century. The area was fortified in the 14th century, though the military citadel known as the fortress of Porta Sole was demolished after a popular uprising in 1376.

Also known as the arco dei Montesperelli - named after the noble family living nearby - the structure is also remembered as Porta del Giglio (or dei Gigli) from 1535. Looking closely at the masonry, one can see the layers of history from the large travertine blocks of the Etruscan wall to the finer medieval bricks.

On the exterior side to the right of the medieval arch, the beginning of the original round arch is still visible. These layers of construction mark the long history of one of the city's most significant gateways.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons