Koppelpoort, Amersfoort, Netherlands

The Koppelpoort is a medieval gate in Amersfoort. The gate was built between 1380 and 1425 as part of the second city wall. The whole wall was completed around 1450. The gate was attacked in 1427 during the siege of the city, but this attack was repelled.

The gate was opened and closed every day by the appointed 'wheel-turners'. A minimum of twelve wheel-turners were collected morning and evening by several guards. It was an extremely dangerous task; if they did not begin walking simultaneously, then one could fall, dragging the rest along with often fatal results. Before the gate could come down, it had to be raised, to pull out the iron pins that held it in place. Only then could it come down. While the gate was going down, walking in the wheel grew ever easier and faster, and many people stumbled and broke their limbs. The koppelpoort was also never breached.

The Koppelpoort was given its current appearance during the restoration by Pierre Cuypers in 1885 and 1886. Among other things, Cuypers removed a step between the two gates and replaced it with a slope.

The latest restoration was completed in 1996. It was carried out very cautiously, and with respect for the old building materials.

References:

Wikipedia

Castles and fortifications in Netherlands

User Reviews

Fabian Jöbstl (2 years ago)
really picturesque, i did not expect that. especially beautiful before the sun sets.

sjb hull (2 years ago)
The crowning glory of Amersfoort. This is a part of the old city I do not know of a paid tour. It is possible there is one but it would only be to go inside the rooms in the impressive gate. It is like Amersfoort a hidden gem. The locals appreciate this historic quarter. Even the trains that thunder past do not distract from the beautiful mesmerising place. I think this would have been the main water entrance to the city probability from the Old Zuider Zee. Wonder if my ancestors who where barge and boat owners visited. Trade then was strong and although Brexit has damaged that it still exists.

Abhishek Singh (2 years ago)
just like a Disney fairy tale, looking medieval road & sea gate of the old Amersfoort city. Gives you a glimpse into medieval europe.

Subendra Thiruchelvam (2 years ago)
Beautiful city gate. Took a walk around town & stopped here for a bit. Historical town. Peaceful in the evening during weekdays. Worth a visit for sure

Алексей Никитин (2 years ago)
Beautiful place. I recommend! And the town center itself is very interesting.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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