Portón de Campo is an 18th-century city gate and drawbridge built by the Portuguese settlers of Colonia del Sacramento. It was an integral part of the walls that protected the city from intrusion. Visit this site, now a charming entrance to the historic center of the area. Trees, bushes and grassy hills surround the wooden drawbridge.
Marvel at the stone pillars of the gateway that permit entry to the historic center. See the chains that were used to shut the drawbridge to stop potential enemies from entering. Learn about the history of the landmark through its informative plaques.
A Portuguese governor known as Vasconcellos, who had a great influence on the city, ordered the construction of the site in 1745. Green hills with trees and bushes have replaced the moat that once flowed below the bridge. Follow the remains of the wall and discover cannons and other historical relics.
Capture photos of the antique drawbridge. Imagine the daily lives of the European settlers who lived here as you walk back and forth along the bridge. Passing through the gate is like stepping back in time, with countless historic landmarks scattered around the area.
The drawbridge was recovered at the beginning of the 1970s. Some parts were rebuilt, while the majority of the structure remained intact. Its name means “Camp Gate.” It is also known as the Puerta de la Ciudadela (Fortress Door). The site is free and open to the public at all times. Take advantage of the clean public bathrooms nearby.
Find the Portón de Campo in the historic center in the southwest part of the city of Colonia del Sacramento. It is next to the Portuguese Museum, the lighthouse and the main square, Plaza Mayor. Walk about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) west from the city’s principal bus stop and the ferry port, where travelers arrive from Buenos Aires in Argentina across the Río de la Plata.
