First gate of the Fortress

The first Fortress Gate, leading to the historic center of Alba Iulia, is located on the eastern side of the fortress, at the base of the fortified terrace. It was built of light stone in the form of a triumphal arch.

The gate is richly decorated. There are three statues on its top. On the sides are figures of Mars, the Roman god of war, and Venus, the goddess of beauty and love. Between them is a statue of an Austrian eagle with two heads and outstretched wings. He holds a sword and a scepter in his claws, and on his chest is the monogram of Emperor Charles VI, during whose reign the fortress was built. Below you can also see reliefs depicting the mythical heroes - Hercules, Perseus and Aeneas, the legendary founder of Rome.