Architecture of the Black Gate

'In plan and disposition the Black Gate and buildings to the rear of it are most ingeniously contrived with the object of flanking the western curtain. It is pushed forward in an irregular fashion well in advance of the old wall, and provides various salient angles from which to direct fire upon the enemy. Naturally a point of attack and defence, the gate is combined with the other points of the castle, including the keep, in a remarkably clever manner. For the purpose intended the Blackgate is an excellent example of a military structure skillfully planned.’(Arch. Ael.,4th ser., vol.II.)

Roughly oval in plan and measuring 50 x 34 feet the Black Gate has a central passage (11 feet 6" wide) running through it with a vaulted guard room on either side. Ten feet within the modern entrance to the passage are grooves for the portcullis and six feet further reveal a pointed arch rebated on the inside for the main gate. Today the building is 63 feet tall, it's original height remains unknown because the 2nd and 3rd stories were rebuilt in the 17th century using original stone. The 4th floor and roof are modern, re-built when the society reconditioned the building for use as a museum 1883 - 1885.

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