Los Arcos de Guadalajara are a pair of majestic arches in the city of Guadelajara. In the tradition of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the arches were originally designed as an extravagant entrance to the city but the metropolis gradually expanded around them over the years. Visit the arches to see one of the most recognizable structures in the city.
Construction of the arches began in 1939 in celebration of the city’s 400th anniversary and was completed three years later. Marvel at the grandness of the two neoclassical arches. Each has a width of 26 feet (8 metres) and a height of 46 feet (14 metres). The total height of the monument is 69 feet (21 metres). The middle of each arch bears Guadalajara’s coat of arms, which features two lions posing against an oak tree. Read the various inscriptions on the arches referring to the city’s beauty and history.
Enjoy the atmospheric glow of the blue and yellow lights that illuminate the arches at night. Examine up close the white, blue and yellow tiles that make up the façade and pay tribute to Guadalajara’s arts and crafts region, Tlaquepaque. Admire the four fountains which are part of the arches.
Inside the arches, visit the tourist information office in the south pillar. Climb the stairs to the top of the arches for a panoramic view of the city and spot nearby gardens and landmarks, such as La Minerva fountain. Use the on-site binoculars for a better view.
Los Arcos de Guadalajara is located on the western side of Guadalajara. The arches are best reached by public transport, as parking is limited. Be mindful crossing the street to reach the arches as the surrounding area is quite busy. Entry to the arches is free.
