The name is probably medieval and can be found on the oldest preserved town maps of Visby. The wooden outer gate was preserved in its original place until 1873. This tower displays the best workmanship with slim seams and finely-hewn stones. There are two stone benches recessed into the wall of the cross-vaulted passageway, where there is also a sculpted double face. There is an open fireplace in the room above the archway, indicating that it was guarded during winter time. Arrowheads and pieces of firearms have been found in the tower; their dates vary from the Medieval Period and up to the early 17th century.
When the Visby – Hemse railway line was opened in 1878 with the railway station just outside the South Gate, it became an even more important connection to the inner city. Due to the increased vehicle traffic through the gate, it was decided in 1947 to add the current pedestrian passages on both sides.
Photo: W.carter
