Katzenturm Feldkirch

Standing tall and proud in the heart of Feldkirch, Austria, the Katzenturm Feldkirch (originally known as Katzenturm) is a remarkable historical structure that has witnessed centuries of history. This eight-story, cylindrical tower is a testament to the town's rich past and serves as a prominent landmark that draws visitors from near and far. With its fascinating history and unique architectural features, the Katzenturm Feldkirch is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

The History of Katzenturm Feldkirch

The Katzenturm Feldkirch was constructed in 1507 as part of the town's fortifications. It was built under the reign of the German King Maximilian I and the Habsburg Vogt Hans von Königsegg. The construction of the tower was initially completed in 1500, but it was later extended due to the demands of the Swabian War, which prolonged the building process until 1507. Originally, the tower was a simple cylindrical structure topped with battlements.

In the 17th century, the tower underwent significant changes. It was transformed into a bell tower, and the battlements were removed to make way for a bell chamber. This modification was necessary because the church towers in Feldkirch were too small to accommodate the large bell that was cast in 1665. The bell, known as the Katzenturmglocke, was eventually hung in the tower, and the structure was further modified to serve its new purpose.

The tower faced a major setback on August 6, 1697, when a devastating fire ravaged Feldkirch, causing extensive damage to the Katzenturm. However, the resilient spirit of the town's inhabitants ensured that the tower was swiftly rebuilt. Today, the Katzenturm stands at an impressive height of 40 meters with a circumference of 38 meters, making it a dominant feature of the Feldkirch skyline.

The Katzenturmglocke

One of the most notable features of the Katzenturm Feldkirch is the Katzenturmglocke, the largest bell in the Vorarlberg region and the second-largest historical bell in Austria. The original bell, cast in 1665 by Theodosius Ernst from Lindau, weighed an astounding 113 quintals and cost 7000 guilders. It was named Rochus and was intended to be a symbol of the town's resilience and faith.

Unfortunately, the bell soon developed a crack and had to be recast by master bell founders Johann Baptist Ernst and Melchior Maurer in 1674/75. The bell's journey did not end there, as it fell during the 1697 fire and had to be recast once again. This time, the recasting was successful, and the bell continued to serve its purpose.

In 1856, the bell suffered another crack and was recast by Josef Anton Grassmayr. The wooden bell frame from this period still supports the bell today. During World War I, there were plans to melt down the bell for the war effort, but Bishop Sigismund Waitz successfully petitioned Emperor Charles I to save it. In 1962, an electric drive replaced the eight men previously required to ring the bell, and in 1976, the wooden yoke was replaced with a steel one. However, this caused the bell to be struck too hard, leading to frequent breaks in the clapper. Thankfully, the bell itself remained intact.

In 2010, the bell system was overhauled by the Perner company from Passau. The steel yoke was replaced with a straight oak yoke, and a new 450 kg clapper was installed. This renovation ensured that the bell could be rung smoothly and without causing further damage. The bell is now rung on high holidays, Fridays at 3 PM (the hour of Christ's death), and during the grape harvest on the Ardetzenberg.

In 2018, a split in the oak yoke was discovered, and the bell was temporarily silenced. After installing a new 800 kg larch wood yoke, the bell has been ringing again since March 2019, continuing its long-standing tradition.

Visiting Katzenturm Feldkirch

Visitors to Feldkirch will find the Katzenturm Feldkirch to be a captivating historical site. The tower's imposing presence and rich history make it an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. As you approach the tower, you'll be struck by its sheer size and the sense of history that permeates the air.

Inside the tower, you can explore the bell chamber and learn more about the Katzenturmglocke's fascinating history. The tower also offers stunning views of Feldkirch and the surrounding area, providing a unique perspective on this charming Austrian town.

Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Katzenturm Feldkirch is a must-visit destination. Its storied past and impressive structure make it a true gem in the heart of Feldkirch, offering visitors a glimpse into the town's rich heritage and enduring spirit.