The most imposing of the three surviving medieval city gates, built in the late 14th century at the western end of the old town. The Spalentor is a hulking Gothic tower flanked by two round turrets, decorated with coats of arms and sculptures of the Virgin Mary and two prophets. It was part of the second ring of walls that once enclosed Grossbasel.
The gate still stands over an active street and is best seen on foot — up close the stonework is fine and the proportions are striking. The surrounding neighbourhood, Spalenvorstadt, is one of the more pleasant parts of the old town for wandering, with independent shops, bookshops, and cafes in buildings that date back several centuries.