Porte Rivotte
A magnificent historical gate, Porte Rivotte is a survivor of Besançon's ancient defenses, offering a passage to the old town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Porte Rivotte
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent historical gate, Porte Rivotte is a survivor of Besançon's ancient defenses, offering a passage to the old town.
"Magnificent gate of Faubourg Rivotte, like a passage in time to enter the old town."
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available close to the gate. :car:
🚶♂️ Gateway to Old Town
Use the gate as your entry point to explore the old town, cathedral, and citadel. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porte de Rivotte
A magnificent survivor of an ancient defensive system, offering a passage through time to the old town.
Historical Significance
Witness a monument from an earlier era, a testament to Besançon's strategic importance.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding its History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available close to the gate. :car:
🚶♂️ Gateway to Old Town
Use the gate as your entry point to explore the old town, cathedral, and citadel. :walking:
☀️ 'Gate of the Sun King'
Appreciate its nickname and historical context as a survivor of earlier defenses. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available close to the gate. :car:
🚶♂️ Gateway to Old Town
Use the gate as your entry point to explore the old town, cathedral, and citadel. :walking:
☀️ 'Gate of the Sun King'
Appreciate its nickname and historical context as a survivor of earlier defenses. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Porte Rivotte as a magnificent historical monument and a gateway to Besançon's old town. Its status as a survivor of earlier defensive systems is highlighted as a key point of interest. Some lament the demolition of other similar structures in the city.
"Nice place with plenty of parking nearby"
Virginia Tonelli
"It is magnificent, what a shame for the other Gates of the defense belt of Besançon which were knowingly demolished to ventilate the city... the inscription on the pediment of the Gate "EXPRESS DEFENSE DE TROTTER" is still valid today but for DIN horses."
Robert SENNERICH
"The Rivotte district, old Besançon for the people of Besançon, the Porte Rivotte, a monument from an ancient era and still there, also called "The Gate of the Sun King"."
Cyril B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porte Rivotte is easily accessible within the city of Besançon. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for exploring the old town. Ample parking is available nearby, making it accessible by car.
Yes, Porte Rivotte serves as a gateway to the old town. From here, you can easily access the cathedral and the citadel, making it a central point for exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Porte Rivotte is an outdoor monument and generally accessible without a ticket. It's part of the historical cityscape of Besançon.
As an open-air monument, Porte Rivotte does not have specific opening hours. You can view it at any time of day.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting as the sun casts a warm glow on the gate. Weekday mornings provide fewer distractions for clear shots.
The gate itself is a striking subject. Consider framing it with the surrounding streets or capturing its historical architecture.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Porte Rivotte is a survivor of an earlier defensive system designed by Emperor Charles V, predating Vauban's fortifications. It represents a key part of Besançon's historical defense strategy.
The inscription on the pediment reads 'EXPRESS DEFENSE DE TROTTER,' which is noted by visitors as still relevant today, albeit humorously for modern times.
No, Porte Rivotte predates the Vauban fortifications. It's a remnant of an earlier defensive system that protected Besançon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Take time to appreciate the architectural details and consider its role in the city's defense against historical adversaries. Its inscription also provides a talking point for understanding historical context and its modern-day interpretations.
Day-Trippers
With ample parking nearby, it's a convenient spot to begin your exploration. You can easily spend a few hours here, soaking in the history and then venturing further into the charming old town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Survivor of Besançon's Defenses
This historical context makes Porte Rivotte a valuable site for understanding the evolution of Besançon's fortifications. Visitors can appreciate its architecture and imagine the city's past as a frontier stronghold. The inscription on its pediment, 'EXPRESS DEFENSE DE TROTTER,' adds a layer of historical intrigue, with some visitors humorously noting its continued relevance.
Often referred to as 'The Gate of the Sun King,' Porte Rivotte is more than just a monument; it's a passage through time. Its location makes it a convenient entry point to the old town, leading visitors towards the cathedral and the citadel, offering a peaceful yet historically rich experience.
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