Kruispoort, Medieval city gate in Bruges, Belgium.
Kruispoort is a medieval city gate in Bruges featuring two round corner towers flanking a central rectangular section. The passage through features pointed archways and ribbed vaults that frame the interior spaces.
Built between 1401 and 1406 by architects Jan van Oudenaerde and Maarten van Leuven, the gate replaced an earlier structure destroyed in the 1382 siege. This reconstruction marked an important renewal of the city's defensive system.
The interior spaces now house the Sint-Michielsgilde fencing association, which continues practicing martial arts within these medieval walls. This modern use connects the gate's military past with activities that still involve combat training today.
Located on Langestraat, the gate is accessible by local bus services and remains part of Bruges's preserved fortifications. Visitors should check ahead about access since the fencing association uses the interior spaces.
The ground floor contains a rectangular chamber with two ribbed vaults and features a distinctive fireplace adorned with Delft tiles. This combination reveals how medieval military buildings could incorporate refined decorative elements.
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