Bridge of the Holes, Gothic water gate in Tournai, Belgium
The Bridge of the Holes is a Gothic stone structure crossing the Scheldt River with three pointed arches and two square defensive towers built from local limestone. The towers appear as solid fortifications connected by graceful arch spans, creating a unified defensive gate.
Construction began in 1281 as part of Tournai's medieval fortification program and it served as a key control point over the river for centuries. The structure withstood multiple sieges and remained essential to the city's defense system into modern times.
The structure served as a control point for river commerce and represented the city's power over trade routes. Local people used it as a landmark and as part of daily pathways along the riverbank.
The bridge can be viewed from several spots along the riverbank paths, with the southern walkway offering the most direct access. Morning and evening light produces the best photographs of the stone towers and arch details.
The structure contained a mechanical portcullis system that could block river traffic, making it one of the few surviving medieval water gates in Europe. This sophisticated control mechanism allowed the city to stop or permit boat and cargo passage as needed.
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