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Gevangenenpoort, Antwerpse Kempen Travel Guide

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Discover Lier's Gevangenenpoort: A historic gate that once served as a prison, blending Gothic and classicist architecture in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.

The Gevangenenpoort (Prisoners' Gate) is the last remaining city gate of Lier's original five inner gates, dating back to 1375. Originally built as part of the city's defenses, it served as a prison from the 16th century until 1930, hence its name. The gate showcases a blend of Gothic and classicist styles and features statues of Saint Roch and Saint Margaret.

A brief summary to Gevangenenpoort

  • Zimmerplein 2, Lier, Lier, 2500, BE
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gevangenenpoort.

  • Take a walk through the nearby Begijnhof, a UNESCO World Heritage site with picturesque streets and historic houses.
  • Visit the Zimmertoren, a tower featuring an astronomical clock, located near the Gevangenenpoort.
  • Explore the Grote Markt (main market square) and the Stadhuis (Town Hall) to experience the heart of Lier.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Gevangenenpoort is located on Zimmerplein in the center of Lier, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From the Grote Markt, walk east along the Eikelstraat, which leads directly to Zimmerplein and the Gevangenenpoort. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Gevangenenpoort is easily accessible by bus. Several bus lines stop near the Gevangenenpoort at the Lier Markt bus stop, including lines 1, 2, 3, and 90. From Lier Station, take any of these bus lines to Lier Markt. From there, it is a short walk to Zimmerplein. A single bus fare costs around €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Lier. A short taxi ride from Lier Station to the Gevangenenpoort would cost approximately €10-€15. Note that pickup times may be longer than in larger cities.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available at the Indigo Grote Markt Lier car park on Florent Van Cauwenberghstraat, a short walk from the Gevangenenpoort. Hourly parking rates at the Grote Markt car park are approximately €2.70. On-street parking is also available, but it is paid parking from 9:00 to 24:00. Free parking is available at De Mol car park on Aarschotsesteenweg, a bit further from the city center.

Discover more about Gevangenenpoort

The Gevangenenpoort, or Prisoners' Gate, stands as a testament to Lier's rich history. Constructed in 1375, it was one of five inner city gates forming the first defensive wall around Lier. Today, it is the only one that remains. Originally known as the Eeckelpoort or Eikelpoort, the gate's function shifted in the 16th century when it was repurposed as a prison, a role it maintained until 1930. The bars on the windows are a reminder of its time as a prison.The gate's architecture reflects a blend of styles. Initially built in the Gothic style, it was later updated around 1728 with classicist features. On the side facing Begijnhofstraat, the original pointed arch has been preserved. Niches on either side of the gate hold statues of Saint Roch, the patron saint of the falsely accused, and Saint Margaret, the patron saint of Lier. Inside the gate's passage, an image of Saint Roch is accompanied by a text imploring visitors to light a candle for protection from plague and war.A portion of the Gevangenenpoort is now integrated into a neighboring hotel. In 1980, the gate was designated as a protected monument and part of a protected cityscape. The Gevangenenpoort is also part of the Begijnhof core zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site.Between 1589 and 1603, the Gevangenenpoort served as a prison for alleged witches.

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