Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei), Brasov (must see)

Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) stands as a significant historical monument built in 1559 by the Tailors' Guild. This gate was constructed to replace an earlier one that succumbed to flooding in 1526. It is noteworthy as the only remaining original city gate from medieval Brasov, with its significance further highlighted by its connection to the former Saint Catherine's Monastery, after which it is named.

The gate's architectural design includes a central tower, which is the main surviving part of the original structure. Historical records reveal that there was also a wooden extension, demolished in 1827, with a detailed model of this original structure displayed at the Weaver's Bastion museum, showcasing Brasov circa 1600.

During the Saxon governance from the 13th to the 17th century, the gate also served a socio-economic function. It was known as Porta Valacce, or the Vallah's Gate, and was the only entry point for Romanians living outside the fortress in the neighborhood of Schei. These Romanians, restricted from owning property within the fortress walls, were allowed entry only at designated times and were required to pay tolls for selling their goods inside the citadel.

Symbolically, the gate features four small corner turrets, a common motif in Transylvanian towns, denoting the city's judicial autonomy and the "right of the sword" (ius gladii)—the authority to impose capital punishment. Above the entrance, the tower proudly displays Brasov’s coat of arms, depicting a crown on an oak trunk with roots, symbolizing strength and resilience.

Today, Catherine's Gate functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and the broader heritage of Brasov. This gate not only serves as a physical reminder of the past but also as a cultural and educational landmark, illustrating the complex historical interactions between different ethnic groups in Transylvania.