Moerenpoort

About the museum

The Moerenpoort is the only surviving medieval city gate in Tongeren. Built in the 13th century on the remains of the Roman city wall, it formed part of the town walls with six gates. In 1347 the gate was destroyed; rebuilding began in 1379. Flint from the Roman wall was used for the foundations, and the tower itself got three floors, with a keep as its model, crowned by a saddle roof and four corner turrets.

The gate survived the French attacks of 1673 and was saved from demolition in the 19th century by the Geschied- en Oudheidkundig Genootschap (Historical and Archaeological Society). Since 1958 there has been a museum in the tower, initially with weapons. In 2011 the exterior was restored and the tower received a museum about medieval Tongeren.

In December 2024 the Moerenpoort reopened with a completely renewed display. Across three floors, projections, listening clips and information banners tell the story of medieval life in and around the gate, and of the town from the year 1000 until the great city fire of 1677. In a display shaft running through the tower you can see objects from that time, and at the top there is a platform with views over the town, the beguinage and the De Kevie nature reserve.

Highlights

• The only surviving medieval city gate in Tongeren
• Museum over three floors about medieval life and city defence
• Animations and audio clips on every floor
• Views over the town, the beguinage and De Kevie from the top
• Free admission and a playful trail for children

Permanent exhibition

• Museum in de Moerenpoort – Three floors on medieval Tongeren, the function of the city gate and life in and around the gate, with projections, audio clips and a display shaft of objects.

Founded

1958

Operated by

Stad Tongeren-Borgloon

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free for everyone.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations

The Moerenpoort is suitable for a visit with children: a discovery trail introduces them to medieval Tongeren in a playful way.

Getting there & parking

The gate is on the Leopoldwal, next to the Sint-Catharina Beguinage.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit