Medieval Town Wall

The medieval wall of Cologne encircles the old city with thick stone foundations and several surviving gates, like the Eigelsteintorburg. Built during the thirteenth century, this defensive ring spanned over seven kilometers and featured twelve massive gatehouses to regulate trade and tax arrival. When local merchants grew frustrated with the archbishop's control, they funded the construction themselves to assert their own authority. Today, the segments of masonry remain as rugged, grey stone scars cutting through the modern streets of the city.