Karlstor

The Karlstor stands as a medieval gatehouse marked by three distinctive high arches, anchoring the western end of Munich's pedestrian zone. Once part of the city's second defensive wall, the structure bears the name of Elector Karl Theodor. In eighteen fifty-seven, the gate suffered an explosion when a lightning strike ignited a gunpowder store inside. The resulting blast shattered the main tower, and city officials decided to leave the remaining side buildings standing as a memorial to the medieval fortification.