The picturesque Eastern Gate, also known as Oostpoort, lies along the East End Canal, an example of Brick Gothic northern European architecture. Around the 1500s, the twin towers were enlarged to have octagonal upper stories with pointed roofs. Words do not do this lovely structure justice, with its glazed brick and white lime plaster.

While it was originally built to protect the eastern part of the city against invaders, it underwent major restoration in the early 1960s and was converted to an apartment. Since the 19th century, it has been an object of fascination among Dutch painters, and, naturally, the subject of their paintings. Be sure to rent a bike to cross the drawbridge, and just pause to gaze at the breathtaking sight of canals coming together, with the occasional waterfowl dotting the view.