The Luttekepoort, a historic gate of Harderwijk, has a rich history dating back to the city wall. Originally, the main gate consisted of an imposing square gate tower, flanked by a round tower that served as an ammunition tower in the 17th century. In the 16th and 17th centuries, this gate tower also had a less glamorous function: that of a city prison. After the devastating city fire of 1503, which reduced a large part of Harderwijk to ashes, the Luttekepoort became an important place for the city administration. The tower temporarily served as a meeting place where crucial decisions were made regarding the reconstruction of the city. Around 1520, the Luttekepoort underwent a significant expansion under the supervision of the Duke of Gelre. A large central gate was added, strategically placed in front of the main gate. This expansion consisted of two robust round towers, each with a diameter of approximately nine meters, between which the gate was situated. Unfortunately, this impressive addition did not remain unscathed for long: in 1673, the gate was blown up by the French occupiers, an act that left an indelible mark on the cityscape. Centuries later, in 2009, during the construction of the Houtwal parking garage, part of one of the round towers of the central gate was excavated. This unique historical fragment has been carefully relocated and is now part of the parking garage, where the public can admire it and feel a tangible connection to Harderwijk's past. The original square main gate of the Luttekepoort met its end in 1803, when it was demolished. Today, only a part of the ammunition tower remains, a silent witness to the once mighty Luttekepoort and Harderwijk's fortifications. Visitors to the Houtwal parking garage can take a look at the remains, delving into the rich history of this historic city gate.
