Town Fortification Kalkar

The first fortification of the city center with rampart and moat took place in the 13th century. In 1349, the city wall was mentioned for the first time. It had four gates - Ketteltor (1355), Kalkartor, Montor and Hanselaertor (1363). In 1363, the new town east of the stream was incorporated. In 1498, during the Guelders Feud, bulwarks were erected in front of all four gates. In 1505, all bulwarks except the one in front of the Kalkartor were demolished again. From 1518-1537, the western city moat was expanded. During the Jülich War in 1542-43, bastion systems were erected to strengthen the city's fortifications. From 1640-45, comprehensive fortifications were built according to the Dutch bastion system under Hessian occupation. In 1647, after the withdrawal of the Hessians, the fortifications were partially demolished by the Brandenburg Electors. From 1656-72, the fortifications were restored. In 1674, the fortifications were again demolished during the Franco-Dutch War. From 1770-75, the Montor and Hanselaertor were demolished, and in 1828, the Kalkartor and Ketteltor were demolished.