Castle Gate Tower

The Castle Gate Tower is a medieval defensive tower in Jelenia Góra in Lower Silesia, the only surviving part of the former town gate leading in from the castle side. Its present form dates from 1584, when the tower was built on the site of an earlier, destroyed structure.

What it looks like

The tower consists of a cylindrical lower section and an octagonal upper structure topped with a steep tented roof. At the top is a metal weathervane with a deer, the city's symbol, and the date of its construction. Small cross-shaped openings, once used to operate artillery, have survived in the walls.

Former function

Originally the tower served a defensive role at the entrance to the town from the castle side, as part of the medieval protection of Jelenia Góra. Later it served as a town prison. After the gate itself was demolished, the gallery beneath the upper structure was turned into a viewing platform.

Nearby

Not far from the tower stands the Wojanów Gate, and in the centre of Jelenia Góra it is also worth visiting the Museum of the Karkonosze Society, now the Regional Museum, and the Cyprian Kamil Norwid Theatre.

Practical information

• Location: Jelenia Góra, at the former entrance to the town from the castle side
• Getting there: centre of Jelenia Góra, within walking distance of the Market Square
• What to expect: a view of the tower from outside and the viewing platform, it is worth checking the access hours before your visit on the city tourist information website