Delftsche Poort

Delftsche Poort is an abstract artwork which used to be one of the entrances to the city of Rotterdam.

The original gate, designed in a classical style, was built between 1768 and 1773 by architect Pieter de Swart and stood in Hofplein Square.

It was the third gate of the fortification at Kolk and Hofplein. Rotterdam used to have ten city gates, but since 1856, Delftsche Poort is the only one remaining.

Delftsche Poort was once considered one of Rotterdam’s most impressive monuments. However, during the 20th century, it increasingly hindered urban traffic flow.

In 1939, it was dismantled and stored safely. Unfortunately, it was severely damaged during German bombings and couldn’t be reconstructed. As a result, it was demolished.

Fifty years later, a steel reconstruction designed by artist Cor Kraat was erected near the original location of Delftsche Poort. Some remnants of the sculpted decorations from the original gate can still be seen around the new gate.

Several original sculptures from Delftsche Poort found their way to the Boijmans Museum.

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