Klever Tor, Medieval city gate in Xanten, Germany
The Klever Tor is a medieval city gate in Xanten featuring two cylindrical towers flanking the sides and a square tower forming the inner gate structure. The building combines multiple towers and archways that together create a layered fortress entrance at the city boundary.
The gate was built in 1393 and remained standing when other city gates were torn down in the early 1800s following a city council decision in 1843. Its location at the city edge helped it escape demolition that affected other gates.
The gate displays coats of arms from Kleve and Cologne, reflecting the two cities that shared control over Xanten until the 14th century. You can spot these stone symbols marking the shared governance at the entrance today.
The gate can be visited and photographed from outside but is not open for interior tours. Best view comes from walking around it on the city side to observe the different towers and archways from various angles.
The original foundation from 1393 remains intact, while upper sections required rebuilding after World War II damage. This mix of original and reconstructed parts tells the story of the building's resilience across centuries.
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