The Cambrón Gate was the entrance to the Madinat al-Yahud, "City of the Jews," as the Muslims called it. For this reason, it was also called the Gate of the Jews. It is one of the most significant exits from the city of Toledo. It is a splendid fortress in pure Renaissance style, with a large parade ground, four solid towers topped with slate spires, and two arches, built mostly of stone and brick.
Of Muslim origin, it derives its name from the thorny cambrón plants that grew there. The gate was rebuilt in the 16th century according to the plans of Nicolás de Vergara. It is also called "of the Jews" (because it was the main entrance to the Toledo Jewish quarter) and "of Saint Leocadia" (because it was dedicated to this saint after its reconstruction following the expulsion of the Jews in 1492). Its reconstruction took place between 1572 and 1577, when it was christened the Gate of Saint Leocadia, whose image presides over the doorway below the coat of arms of King Philip II.
Like other "gates," it was closed at dusk when the Ave Maria bell tolled in the cathedral and opened at dawn with the ringing of the San Antolín bell. This mission was carried out by the warden, whose residence was located within the gate and who was also responsible for collecting the portage tax (paid for passing from one place to another on a specific road). This tax was exempt from the residents of Toledo, its mountains, and its jurisdiction, according to the plaque also displayed here in the parade ground. The Montes de Toledo Cultural Association is now located in this residence.