Oostpoort
The Oostpoort is the last remaining example of Delft's original city defences.
People all over the world know the Rotterdam Gate, even though it has been gone for almost two centuries. In fact, it features prominently in the painting View of Delft. Back then, the structure could still be admired in all its glory. With its two turrets, the gate resembled the Oostpoort, the only Delft city gate from that time that still exists. Stroll past the beautiful Oostpoort, which will take you back to the days of Vermeer.
The Oostpoort is the last surviving example of the original...
People all over the world know the Rotterdam Gate, even though it has been gone for almost two centuries. In fact, it features prominently in the painting View of Delft. Back then, the structure could still be admired in all its glory. With its two turrets, the gate resembled the Oostpoort, the only Delft city gate from that time that still exists. Stroll past the beautiful Oostpoort, which will take you back to the days of Vermeer.
The Oostpoort is the last remaining example of Delft's original city defences. This medieval city gate was built around the year 1400, a period when Delft was developing into a prosperous trading town within the county of Holland. Originally, Delft had eight city gates, but only the Oostpoort remains. The original city gates were Delft's only entrances and therefore well defended against intruders and enemies. This was therefore the reason why William of Orange chose Delft as his residence in 1572.
In the 16th century, the gate was extended with two characteristic, octagonal towers and a Gothic brick structure. This architecture is a superb example of late medieval building style in the Netherlands. With its waterfront location and the charming little bridges leading to it, the Oostpoort forms a particularly picturesque ensemble - a place that exudes both tranquillity and history