Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei)

Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) is the only surviving medieval gate of old Brașov. It was built in 1559 as part of the city fortifications erected by the Saxon tailors' guild. It is distinguished by a rectangular tower with four small domes at the corners — a sign that the city had the right to independently impose the death penalty. It takes its name from the Monastery of Saint Catherine that stood on that site before the fortifications were expanded. It is a natural starting point for exploring the historic center toward Piața Sfatului, the Black Church, and Strada Sforii.