Hagelstange gates, located in the Northern part of Cologne, are among those that have been perfectly preserved to the present time. This is the true landmark of the city, which attracts with its unique and majestic appearance of many tourists.

Hagelstange gate long served a protective function. Having begun its existence in the thirteenth century, they had to endure repeated rebuilding and reconstruction. Despite the fact that because of the bombing during the Second world war, the gate was almost completely destroyed, government of Cologne decided on the complete restoration of the historic sights of the city.

During its existence Hagelstange gates were not only one of the main entrances to the city, but was for several centuries and customs point where going payments, and prison and court house. This building is a building of three floors with magnificent side towers, between which there is a large portal. In the left part of the building you can see a sculpture depicting a peasant, which symbolizes not only freedom, but also the independence of the city and all its inhabitants from the former feudal obligations. This work of art was placed in this part Chelstowski gate in 1891, when Cologne was visited by William II.

In the Eastern side of the gate you can see the lifeboat. Its placement here by chance, it is a monument dedicated to the memory of sailors who died during the battle in the cruiser "köln" during the battle with the English fleet in 1914. Inside Chelstowski gate everyone can visit the memorial hall, which tells the whole story of the ship.