The "Germans' Gate" is a medieval fortified bridge spanning the Seille on the eastern edge of the old city — two pairs of stone towers connected by an arched walkway, the whole thing built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Despite its name, which refers to a nearby hospital run by the Teutonic Knights, the gate is one of the finest surviving examples of medieval military architecture in France. It looks less like a city gate than a small castle that has been absorbed into the street plan.
The interior is open to visitors and houses small exhibitions on the history of the fortifications. The walk along the river around the gate is one of the most picturesque in Metz, with views of the defensive walls reflected in the water. It is an easy ten-minute walk from the cathedral, free to see, and often quieter than the central sights. In summer there are occasional sound-and-light shows in the courtyard.