Martinstor: A Medieval Gateway to Freiburg's Past
Discover Freiburg's medieval past at the Martinstor, a historic gate blending ancient architecture with modern city life on the bustling Kaiser-Joseph-Straße.
The Martinstor, or Martin's Gate, is one of Freiburg's most iconic landmarks, standing tall as a remnant of the city's medieval fortifications. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic gate has witnessed centuries of Freiburg's evolution, from its role in urban defense to its modern-day integration into the bustling city center. Its towering presence on Kaiser-Joseph-Straße, surrounded by period architecture and cobblestone streets, makes it a captivating photo opportunity and a perfect starting point for exploring Freiburg's rich history. The gate's unique blend of architectural styles, a result of various renovations, adds to its charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the present. A visit to Martinstor is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Freiburg's captivating blend of history and modernity.
A brief summary to Martinstor
- Martinsgässle, Freiburg im Breisgau, Mitte, 79098, DE
- +497612010
- Visit website
Local tips
- Take a stroll along the Bächle, the small water-filled runnels that run through Freiburg's old town, for a unique and refreshing experience.
- Visit the Freiburger Markthalle in the Martinsgässle for a taste of local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Look for the plaque commemorating the women executed for witchcraft in the 16th century, a somber reminder of Freiburg's past.
- Explore the area around the Martinstor on foot to fully appreciate the charming atmosphere of Freiburg's old town.
- Check out the blank space on the gate's wall where a painting of St. Martin of Tours once hung, a reminder of the city's artistic heritage.
Getting There
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Walking
From Freiburg's city center (e.g., Bertoldsbrunnen), the Martinstor is easily accessible on foot. Head south along Kaiser-Joseph-Straße, the main pedestrian street. The Martinstor will be directly in front of you after a short walk (approximately 5-10 minutes). The route is flat and well-paved, making it easily accessible. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Martinstor is well-served by Freiburg's tram network. Several tram lines (including lines 1, 3, 4, and 5) stop at the 'Martinstor' tram stop, located directly in front of the gate. A single ticket for a short distance (Kurzstrecke Ticket), valid for up to three stops, costs €1.50. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at the tram stop or via the VAG Freiburg app. Ensure you validate your ticket upon boarding the tram. Alternatively, a single ticket valid for one hour within Zone A (Freiburg city area) costs €2.50.
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Driving
While driving directly to the Martinstor is possible, parking in the immediate vicinity is limited and can be expensive. The closest parking garage is 'Parkhaus Am Martinstor' (Rempartstraße 6-8), which charges approximately €2.50 per hour or €20 for 24 hours. Evening parking (20:00-07:00) costs €7. Consider using Freiburg's Park & Ride system, parking at a designated P+R location on the outskirts of the city, and taking the tram to the 'Martinstor' stop to avoid city center traffic and parking fees. A tram ticket from a P+R location would cost €2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Freiburg's main train station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Martinstor would take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8-€12. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Martinstor
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Martinstor
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Kaiser-Joseph-Straße 229
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Augustinerpl. 2
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Augustinerplatz
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Augustinerpl.
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Unmissable attractions to see
Löwenbrunnen
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Markthalle
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