The gate of Porta dei Vacca is the same in appearance as that of the Porta Soprana or of S.Andrea of the 12th Century. This was the main Western entrance to the city and is near the now destroyed church of Saint Faith. Built at the same time as the walls to defend the city from invasion by the Barbarossa forces, it consists of two semi-circular towers, linked by a crenulated arch with sharp curves. During the 18th Century the same features were incorporated into neighbouring buildings. It was from a family that lived here that the name ‘Vacca’ was used.
