From warrior monks to historical gate: Porte de la Cavalerie

The Porte de la Cavalerie, an ancient gate within the medieval ramparts of Arles, France, traces its name back to the Middle Ages, when it served a quarter originally owned by the Baux family. This quarter became a home for the Knights Templar during the 12th century, who, with their connection to the Templar order, gave the quarter, and thus the gate, the name Cavalerie. However, contrary to popular belief, the name does not refer to horse soldiers; it is a toponym, not a functional name.

The Knights Templar were an influential military-religious order, one whose presence in Arles remains commemorated in the name of this gate. The gate itself stood not alone but spanned the roubine du roy, a royal drainage canal cut through the northern approach to drain the surrounding marshland. Crossing it required a drawbridge. Today, Porte de la Cavalerie stands as a historical monument, acknowledging the layers of history it represents.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons