Mill Gate in Stargard

The Mill Gate in Stargard (German: Mühlentor) is one of the four medieval city gates, considered a unique monument both architecturally and historically. Built in the first half of the 15th century, it forms an essential part of the city's landscape and was featured on the historic seals and coat of arms of Stargard. Its name comes from the mill located nearby on the Mill Canal, which was constructed between 1240 and 1268. The gate played an important control function, collecting tolls for the transport of goods via the river. After World War II, it became a venue for various cultural initiatives, including an information point of the Polish Tourist and Sightseeing Society and the headquarters of the Stargard Association of Fine Arts Lovers. Since 2007, it has been home to the Stargard Knights' Brotherhood "GRYF". Between 2008 and 2010, the gate underwent a comprehensive renovation, the first in 70 years. Architecturally, the Mill Gate is a two-story structure built on a rectangular plan, made of brick, measuring 14 x 6 meters. It features a hipped roof and two octagonal towers that reach a height of 28 meters. The facade facing the city is decorated with two blind windows, while the towers have arrow slits and crenellated tops. Changes to the gate's architecture occurred over the centuries, including neo-Gothic transformations in the 19th century and a softening of its form in 1938. Along with St. Mary's Collegiate Church and the former defensive walls, the Mill Gate was designated a Historic Monument by the President of Poland in 2010.