Kosttor, Medieval gate tower in Altstadt-Lehel, Germany
The Kosttor was a medieval gate tower in Munich's old town, positioned where several main streets intersected. It stood at the junction of Maximilianstraße, Neuturmstraße, Platzl, and Falkenturmstraße in the northeastern part of the district.
Built in 1325, this gate tower was part of Munich's second defensive wall that protected the growing city. It was demolished in 1872 when the city expanded and no longer needed its medieval fortifications.
The name Kosttor comes from its role as a food distribution center for the poor, showing how medieval Munich organized care for its residents. This function reveals what was important to the city beyond just defense and trade.
A stone memorial plaque on the building at Platzl 5 marks the spot where this gate once stood in the city. The location is easy to find and walkable from many parts of the nearby historic center.
In the 15th century, a round artillery tower was added to strengthen its defenses against advancing gun technology. This reinforcement shows how medieval fortifications adapted to new weapons.
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