The restoration of the Puerta de Toledo, the foremost heritage symbol of Ciudad Real and listed as a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) with the category of Monument, focused on its structural conservation and formal recovery as an outstanding example of late medieval military architecture. The intervention addressed the consolidation of ashlar and rubble masonry, the restoration of sculptural and heraldic elements, and the recovery of the vaults, machicolations, and merlons of the central body and lateral towers. Specific techniques were applied for cleaning, repointing with compatible mortars, surface protection, and selective volumetric reintegration, all conducted under strict criteria that respected the material and constructive authenticity of the monument.
The operation involved a high level of both technical and heritage complexity, as it concerned a monumental structure exposed to urban traffic, weathering, and degradation from prolonged use. Works also included the improvement of drainage systems, protection against rising damp, and control of biological deterioration, along with complementary interventions such as architectural lighting and the enhancement of the immediate urban surroundings. The restoration of the Puerta de Toledo has ensured the preservation of one of the few surviving fortified gates of the historic city wall of Ciudad Real, reinforcing its role as an urban landmark, cultural reference, and civic symbol of the city.
