Similar to many Dutch cities, Delft is encircled by canals. Delft means river or stream. The Old Deflt canal was created in 1100. The Nieuwe Delft was dug at the end of the 12th century. As the city grew, subsequent canals were built in the 13th century. Their initial purpose was drainage and then transportation. Circa 1400, a network of city walls and eight gates were built for defense. Today, the canals add considerable charm to Delft. But only the Eastern Gate (Oostpoort) remains standing.
