Description of the attraction
The Spalentor gate is the most attractive and pompous of the three city gates that have survived to our time, which were part of extensive fortifications in the XIV-XV centuries. It was through them, according to many historical evidence, that the largest part of the important goods brought from Alsace entered the city. They consist of several towers - a square at the base of the central tower, which is almost 10 meters wide, and two round side towers, each about 7 meters in diameter. A spiral staircase was previously installed in one of the towers. Now the wall, which was previously located on the sides of the gate, has been dismantled.
It is impossible to pass by these gates and remain indifferent. Everyone who has visited Basel remembers them due to the amazing and rare beauty of a structure so simple in its purpose. On the outer facade, you can see three figures - the Madonna with the baby Jesus in her arms and two prophets on the sides, holding scrolls in their hands. However, this is not the only decoration of this attraction. Figures of lions holding the city's coat of arms in their paws are installed directly above the grate.
Previously, the Spalentor were part of the fortifications of the so-called Greater Basel, which ensured the safety and tranquility of the townspeople. This can be seen from a close examination of the towers adjacent to them - such imposing and severe towers could not have been built in those days only as a decorative element.
