Monk Bar is the largest and most ornate of the bars, it dates from the early 14th century. It was a self-contained fortress, with each floor capable of being defended. On the front of the bar is an arch supporting a gallery, including 'murder-holes' through which missiles and boiling water could be rained down upon attackers.

Monk Bar has the city’s only working portcullis, in use until 1970. Like the other main gateways, Monk Bar originally had a barbican on the front. This was demolished in 1825.

RichD

June 7, 2025

Hiking

The Bar, which lies 100 yds. southeast of the porta decumana of the legionary fortress, is built almost entirely of magnesian limestone and dates from the early 14th century; the …

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Elevation 60 m

Weather

Today

Friday 13 March

8°C

3°C

12 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Location: York, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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