Ponttor

The Ponttor is a medieval gate located in Aachen, Germany. It is one of the original city gates of Aachen's inner ring of fortifications, built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Situated at the northern end of the Pontstrasse, it historically guarded the road leading to Pont (a district now within the municipality of Monschau) and ultimately towards the Netherlands.

The Ponttor is characterized by its massive construction, featuring a square floor plan and imposing round towers flanking the central gateway. Originally, it included a drawbridge and portcullis for enhanced defense. Over the centuries, the Ponttor has served various purposes, including a prison and a storage facility.

Today, the Ponttor stands as a significant historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction in Aachen. It has undergone restoration work to preserve its architectural integrity. The building is occasionally used for cultural events and exhibitions, serving as a testament to Aachen's rich medieval past. The gate is a protected historical monument.