The Old Gate is the medieval west city gate of Speyer, and is one of the original 68 towers in the old walls and gates. Today it is one of the largest high) and most architecturally significant of the remaining city gates in Germany.
The Old Gate was built between 1230 and 1250 on the ruins of a previous tower. The bottom of the 13th century tower remains as the foundation but, in 1511, Speyer's mayor ordered that the tower be rebuilt, so the top portion is newer. It was completed in 1514. It was originally built as an exterior gate, connecting the old town with the suburb of St.Gilgenvorstadt. A 20 metres high roof was added in 1708.
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