Hampoort, 17th-century city gate in Grave, Netherlands
Hampoort is a 17th-century city gate with a vaulted covered passage and internal courtyard designed for defense. The structure displays characteristic Dutch military architecture of that period with thick walls and narrow openings.
The gate was constructed in 1688 following the recapture of the city from French occupation in 1674 and the subsequent rebuilding of defenses. It marked the start of a major fortification renovation throughout the city.
The name derives from the hampen, an old trade guild whose symbols remain visible in the passage. This profession had designated access through this gate into the city.
The gate is easily accessible on foot at the edge of Grave's old town center. Visitors can walk through the passage and explore the interior spaces which house museum displays.
A roughly 50-meter tunnel runs beneath the gate, possibly serving as both an escape route and drainage system. This hidden passage reveals the clever thinking of medieval defensive planners.
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