Gates of Sandwich

DESCRIPTION: This illustration depicts two historic gateways in the town of Sandwich, Kent, which was once one of the medieval Cinque Ports in England.1. Bridge-Gate (The Barbican)The image on the left shows the Bridge-Gate, more commonly known today as The Barbican.Purpose: Built in the 14th century, it served as a defensive gateway and later a toll house for the bridge crossing the River Stour.Architecture: It features two circular towers with a bridge spanning the water. The current structure seen in modern photos includes late 16th-century additions, such as the distinctive "black and white" timber-framed upper storey. Historical Context: It stood at the northern entrance to the town, controlling access from the Isle of Thanet.2. Fisher-GateThe image on the right shows the Fisher-Gate, which remains the best-preserved of the town's original medieval gates.Significance: It is the only one of Sandwich’s five original gates to survive largely intact; the others were demolished in the late 18th century to improve traffic flow.Design: Built primarily in 1384, it consists of a stone archway with a three-story building above it. The upper brick portions were added later, around 1578.Function: It provided access to the town's busy quay and the ferry crossing. You can still see the grooves for the original portcullis in the archway today. Key Historical DetailsAncient Town: Sandwich was once a major deep-water port, but the silting of the River Stour eventually left the town inland, helping to preserve its medieval layout.Defenses: These gates were part of an extensive system of walls and earthworks (known as the "Bulwarks") that protected the town from naval raids, particularly during the Hundred Years' War.Current Status: Both structures are protected Grade I listed buildings and Scheduled Monuments, serving as major landmarks for visitors to the historic town centre. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 17.25 x 27.25 CREATORS: Thorne; Dalziel PUBLICATION: PUBLISHER: DATE: C19 COMMENTS: Excellent condition SUBJECT: Newsprint PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.