The Porte des Cordeliers is the most photogenic of Loches's surviving town gates: two slim pointed turrets flanking a vaulted passage, with a small footbridge over the river Indre directly outside. It was built in the 15th century to defend the northern approach to the old town and takes its name from a Franciscan (Cordelier) friary that once stood nearby.
Cross the bridge for the best view of the gate from the river. The path along the Indre runs north from here past gardens and old houses; turn left through the gate to reach the old town and the citadel beyond.