Villacher Tor (Villacher Fortified Gate)
History
The town’s medieval fortifications date back to 1228 and underwent significant reinforcement in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The Villacher Gate Tower was one of the four fortified gates. It was constructed in the 13th century. The defences of the gate tower were strengthened by a barbican, which was built in the 15th century.
The gate tower and barbican protected the south-west section of the town wall. Additional protection was provided by a wide ditch, which remained intact until the 19th century.
Location
The gate tower was built into the south-west section of the town wall. It provided access to the Villacher Vorstadt (Villacher suburbs). It was also the gateway to an important trading route that connected St Veit with Villach.
Architecture & Features
The facade of the gate tower was decorated with heraldic sculptures featuring the imperial double-headed eagle and the Carinthian coat of arms, carved by Ulrich Vogelsang in the late 16th century.
Demolition | Villacher Tor
All four city gates, including the Villacher Tor, were demolished between 1851 and 1890. The Villacher Gate was demolished in 1890.
Demolition of the Four Fortified Gates
All four medieval town gates were demolished in the 19th century:
- Klagenfurter Tor – demolished in 1851
- Weitensfelder Tor – demolished in 1866
- Friesacher Tor – demolished in 1869
- Villacher Tor – demolished in 1890
Stone Memorial
A stone slab with a sculpted relief and inscription marks the former site of the demolished Villacher Tor.
Cardinal Directions of the Four Fortified Gates
The Friesacher Tor was aligned towards the north-east (NE).
The Klagenfurter Tor was aligned towards the south-east (SE).
The Villacher Tor was aligned towards the south-west (SW).
The Weitensfelder Tor was aligned towards the north-west (NW).
Historical Photograph
Image Source: Archive of the Municipal Authority of St. Veit an der Glan
Impression of Villacher Gate Tower
Photographic retouching by hand, around 1890
This photographic retouching features a view of the Villacher Gate Tower before its demolition in July 1896.