Bruckentor (Bridge Gate), Heidelberg

Bridge Gate has guarded the way to Heidelberg's north entrance for centuries. Bridge Gate was originally part of the city's walls, and the two towers date to the 15th century. This medieval gate has survived the ice floes and fires that damaged the previous bridges.

The gate has served many functions over the centuries. As part of the city's defenses, the gate could easily be closed in case of attack. The bridge gate also served as a tollhouse, and foreigners wanting to cross the bridge would have to pay a toll. In addition, Bridge Gate has served as a guardhouse and a jail.

The towers are 28 meters high (92 feet). The eastern tower has a spiral staircase that leads to living quarters that were the bridge keeper's home. The western tower has three rooms that were used as detention rooms. The original gate tower tops were replaced with Baroque-style spires in 1788.

Near the gate, you can see flood marks from various floods.