The gate was initially built as a simple brick tower around 1400 and expanded into a double gatehouse later in the century.
The defensive towers were originally intended to guard the entrance to the city via both land and water.
The Gothic spires, which give the gate its iconic silhouette, were added during an architectural renovation in the 1500s.
It is the sole survivor of the original eight city gates that once secured Delft.
The structure currently houses an art gallery and exhibition space, which occasionally allows public access to the interior.
The gate sits at a junction where the canal narrows, historically allowing for effective control of vessel traffic.
The Oostpoort, or East Gate, is the only remaining city gate of Delft, originally constructed around 1400. It consists of two circular towers connected by a bridge over the Schie canal. The structure features prominent Gothic spires that were added in the 16th century. It served as a defensive fortification integrated into the city's walls until those defenses were dismantled. Today, the gate stands as a national monument and a notable landmark of Delft's medieval history. It remains one of the most well-preserved examples of medieval defensive architecture in the Netherlands.
From the bridge on the Oosteinde side looking back at the gate across the canal.
Visit during the golden hour to capture the reflection of the towers in the surrounding canal water.
Walk the perimeter of the nearby canal paths for multiple viewpoints of the towers.
Check local Delft exhibition listings if you wish to see the interior gallery space.
Do not attempt to climb the towers, as they are not open for public vertical exploration.
The interior gallery space has irregular opening periods; the exterior structure is viewable at all times.
