The Fourth Gate of Gondolin was the Gate of Writhen Iron. Its wall was high and black, and unlit. Four towers of iron stood upon it, and between the two inner towers was set an image of a great eagle wrought in iron. A light came through the traceries of the gate, which were wrought and hammered into the shapes of trees with writhing roots and woven branches laden with leaves and flowers. However, the wall was of great thickness, and there were three grilles in line.

Behind the Gate stood lines of Iron Guards, with black mantles, mail and long shields. Their faces were masked with visors bearing an eagle’s beak. Beyond this gate, the road ran almost level, having passed the crown of the Echoriath. The mountain towers then fell swiftly down towards the inner hills, and the ravine became less sheer. Beside the road was a sward of grass, with white flowers.