The Karlstor is a freestanding baroque gate built in 1775 in honor of Elector Charles Theodore at the eastern end of the Old Town. It was part of the original city fortifications and marks the formal entrance to Heidelberg from the east. The late baroque decorated gate features reliefs and coats of arms. Adjacent is the historic Karlstorbahnhof building, now a cultural center. The gate stands as testimony to Heidelberg's importance as the capital of the Electoral Palatinate.