The Gate of the Citadel is one of the most emblematic monuments of Montevideo. It was the main entrance to the Citadel, an imposing military fortress built in the 18th century by the Spanish to defend the walled city from possible land attacks.

In 1877, with the growth of Montevideo beyond its walls, it was decided to demolish the fortification, including the Citadel, as part of the urban expansion. The gate, however, was dismantled stone by stone and moved to different sites before being installed as the rear access to the School of Arts and Crafts building, currently the headquarters of the Universidad del Trabajo del Uruguay (UTU), on Gonzalo Ramírez Street.

In 1959, the Puerta de la Ciudadela was restored and relocated at the mouth of Sarandí Street, a few meters from its original location. To support the structure, a buttress was built to provide stability. In 2009, due to the deterioration of its materials, it underwent a new restoration.

Today, the Puerta de la Ciudadela has become a symbol of Montevideo and a key tourist attraction. Located next to Plaza Independencia, it marks the access to the Old City and is the starting point of the Sarandí Pedestrian Street, one of the busiest streets for visitors and locals.