The archaeological works have allowed the recovery of ammunition and military equipment from the 19th century
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 �|� Viewed: 322 times
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The City Council of Cartagena has reopened the well-known Puerta del Socorro on Tuesday, April 1, after a process of archaeological and architectural recovery that has restored the original height and limestone pavement of this 18th-century postern. The archaeological works have allowed the recovery of ammunition and military equipment from the 19th century.
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As explained by the Councilor of Archaeological Heritage, Pablo Braqueh�is, the works have extended by almost a meter, to its original base, the opening that connects to Cuesta del Batel and have restored the original limestone pavement, hidden under a meter of accumulated fill for over two centuries. The new height of the gate, which now starts much closer to the park level, now ensures accessibility with a gently sloping ramp.
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The interior floor of the postern, covered with worn-out, blunt-edged slabs, still preserves the marks of carts passing and the original doors, used in past centuries for the transportation and defense of the city.
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The original floor was concealed after the War of Independence and was covered by various works in the 20th century, including those carried out in 1998 when renovating Cuesta del Batel. Recent archaeological investigations have also documented the existence of an underlying historic channel, as well as remnants of 19th-century military activity, such as bullets and structures related to its use as an arsenal, warehouse, and shooting gallery.
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The project, which has reestablished the pedestrian connection between Cuesta del Batel and the former Hospital de Marina, currently the headquarters of the Polytechnic University of Cartagena, replaces the provisional access established during the first edition of the Rock Imperium festival.
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The project was designed by the architect Juan de Dios de la Hoz, based on documentation from the Gonz�lez Simancas and Military Archive. It includes specific interventions such as the consolidation of the barrel vault, monumental lighting, and the recreation of an interior rampart with a railing.
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The work, led by the municipal technical team and executed by the SALMER company, has involved an investment of 121,338.01 euros and lasted approximately six months.
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