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The name of this four storey high gatehouse is from the Old Norse 'mykla gata' or 'great street', and leads onto Micklegate ('gate' is Norwegian for 'street' remaining from Viking influence in York). It was the traditional ceremonial gate for monarchs entering the city, who, in a tradition dating to Richard II in 1389, touch the state sword when entering the gate.
A 12th-century gatehouse was replaced in the 14th century with a heavy portcullis and barbican. Its symbolic value led to traitors' severed heads being displayed on the defences. Heads left there to rot included: Henry Hotspur Percy (1403), Henry Scrope, 3rd Baron Scrope of Masham (1415), Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York (1461), and Thomas Percy, 7th Earl of Northumberland (1572).
The building was inhabited until the twentieth century. The upper two floors contain living quarters, which today are a museum known as the Henry VII Experience at Micklegate Bar.

York has, since Roman times, been defended by walls of one form or another. To this day, substantial portions of the walls remain, and York has more miles of intact wall than any other city in England.
There are 6 gates through the Walls - Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, Micklegate Bar, Fishergate Bar & Victoria Bar.
Grade I listed. Link

Grade I listed buildings and structures are of exceptional, even international importance. There are over 6,000 in the country. Only 2.5% of listed buildings are Grade I listed.
In Scotland the classification is Category A
Index: Link

Micklegate is a street in the City of York. The name means "Great Street", "gate". Micklegate lies on the western side of the River Ouse, and holds the southern entrance into the city, Micklegate Bar. It became famous for its pubs and clubs, being known as "The Micklegate Run" by many drinkers.