The Green Gate tower is the unmistakable symbol of Pardubice. Rising to nearly 60 metres, it dominates the skyline and naturally draws the eye of every visitor. Although it actually consists of two parts—the gateway and the tower—it is perceived as a single monument, known simply as the Green Gate.

Its story is closely tied to the town’s fortifications, though its earliest history remains partly a mystery. A major turning point came in 1491, when Vilém of Pernštejn, one of the most powerful noblemen in Bohemia, acquired Pardubice. He chose the town as his residence and transformed it into a prestigious seat, reshaping the centre and strengthening its defences.

In those days, the town could only be entered through two gates. One of them, the White Gate, no longer exists, but its memory lives on in a plaque marking its former location. The Green Gate, however, has endured—and evolved.

Originally known as the Prague Gate, it marked the road leading towards the capital. Its early form was likely modest, but after a devastating fire in 1538, the gate was rebuilt in Renaissance style. A tall tower was added, crowned with an ornate roof of turrets and a central spire. Once covered in shining copper, it glittered in the sun—until time gave it its characteristic green patina and its present-day name.

Approaching the gate in the past was an experience in itself. Visitors had to cross a drawbridge over a dry moat and follow a winding path through multiple defensive points before finally entering the city. Today, much of these fortifications has disappeared, but the sense of entering a historic place remains.

The tower was not only a defensive structure but also the beating heart of daily life. Watchmen kept guard from above, trumpeters played for the townspeople, and the tower marked time—once even signalling the evening curfew. Over the centuries, it has survived fires, structural strain, and even plans for demolition, which were ultimately prevented thanks to public protest.

Its present appearance is the result of careful restorations, particularly in the early 20th century. More recently, in 2024, the Green Gate underwent extensive conservation work, preserving its authentic stonework and ensuring its beauty for future generations.

Today, the Green Gate stands as a proud reminder of Pardubice’s history and ambition. Climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the historic centre and the surrounding landscape—a view that truly makes the visit unforgettable.