Porte de Gand

Porte de Gand, also known as the Porte de la Madeleine, is a significant historical landmark on the site of Lille’s city walls that was originally part of the old Spanish fortifications constructed between 1617 and 1621 during the city’s expansion.

It was designated as a historic monument in 1929.

Erected during the expansion of the city walls under the governance of Archdukes Albert and Isabella, the it was crafted by master masons Pierre Raoul and Jean Le Mestre around 1620, with its formal inauguration occurring in 1625. Throughout history, it underwent preservation efforts, notably by Vauban during his fortification reconfigurations from 1668, where it was strengthened with additional defensive structures. Originally named Porte de la Magdeleine, it was later renamed Porte de Gand following the French Revolution.

The country side facade showcases a tripartite composition, featuring a ground floor with three arcades, a middle section adorned with decorative brickwork and sculpted ornaments, and an upper segment characterised by an entablature and stone cartouches. The city side facade mirrors this structure, boasting sandstone arches on the ground floor, intricate brick patterns in the middle section, and a slate roof with dormer windows at the top.

In 1997, the highly-regarded restaurant Les Remparts opened inside the Porte de Gand, allowing visitors to experience the interior while also enjoying an excellent meal. However, Les Remparts has recently closed and has been replaced by Yaya, a Greek restaurant. While it no longer offers French fine dining, the historic setting is the same and Yaya is a more affordable alternative to les Remparts.

Visiting Porte de Gand

Porte de Gand is located on the eastern edge of Vieux Lille, on the site of Lille’s old city walls. Most points of interest in Vieux Lille are within walking distance including the Institut pour la Photographie, a three-minute walk, and the Hospice Comtesse Museum, Musée des Canonniers Sédentaires and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Treille are all less than a 10-minute walk away.

It is not normally open to the public, unless you’re dining in the restaurant. However, it is still worth a walk to view it from the outside.

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92, rue de Gand, 59800 Lille