Stadtturm Straubing

The Stadtturm Straubing, or simply Stadtturm, is an iconic medieval watchtower that proudly stands at the heart of Straubing in Bavaria, Germany. This 68-meter-tall structure is not just a remarkable piece of architecture but also a symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Nestled in the middle of the town square, the Stadtturm divides the bustling street market into Ludwigsplatz and Theresienplatz, creating a picturesque scene that transports visitors back in time.

The Architectural Marvel of Stadtturm Straubing

Constructed initially as a watch and fire tower, the Stadtturm's location is quite unusual. Unlike typical watchtowers built along city walls, this one stands independently in the city center. This strategic position allowed for the monitoring of the Danube River, where passing ships were subject to tolls. Additionally, its central and elevated location provided an excellent vantage point for spotting fires in the medieval city.

The tower's construction began in 1316, and by the late 14th century, under the rule of Duke Albert II of the Duchy of Straubing-Holland, the eight-story structure was completed. However, the Stadtturm continued to evolve until the 16th century, with the addition of the turret apartment and the four distinctive corner turrets. Originally, the tower had only three stories and was equipped with a storm bell. As the city grew vertically with taller buildings and churches, so did the Stadtturm, reaching its current height.

In its early years, the Stadtturm stood alone without any attachments, allowing people to pass through its base from all sides. It wasn't until the 15th century that annexes were added, partly to provide better stability to the tower and partly to create space for various municipal functions. These annexes housed the city watch, the office of weights and measures, the bread house, the council drinking room, the pavement toll office, and even a theater for some time.

The tower's stability was a concern from the beginning, and it was reinforced with pillars during the Gothic period. By the mid-17th century, significant cracks appeared, necessitating the installation of metal brackets in 1646, which still support the structure today. Despite these measures, a noticeable tilt towards the south is evident.

The Role of the Stadttürmer

At the topmost floor of the tower lived the Stadttürmer, the city's chief watchman. This position was one of great responsibility and honor, requiring the watchman to take an extensive oath of duty. The primary task was to keep an eye out for fires, but the watchman also had to report any groups of more than three travelers approaching the city gates. When a ship arrived from the Danube, the watchman would signal with a red flag, indicating that the toll collectors should be ready to collect the dues.

For safety reasons, the watchman had to strike the bell with a hammer after every hour to confirm his presence and alertness. This practice continued until the last watchman left his post in 1930.

The Stadtturm Today

Today, the Stadtturm Straubing, with its five distinctive spires, stands as a prominent feature in the city's skyline, alongside other notable structures like the Church of St. Jacob, the Carmelite Church, and the Water Tower. The tower also serves as a popular advertising motif for nearby shops and businesses.

Since its renovation in 1986, the tradition of Neujahranblasen has been revived. Every New Year's Day, the Straubing Tower Blowers perform from the tower, echoing the customs of centuries past. Visitors can explore the Stadtturm as part of the Over the Roofs of Straubing city tour, which allows access to the old watchman's apartment, offering stunning views of the medieval city layout and the surrounding countryside.

The Stadtturm Straubing is more than just a historical monument; it is a testament to the city's resilience and architectural ingenuity. Its walls tell stories of a bygone era, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Straubing. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Stadtturm promises a journey through time and a glimpse into the heart of Straubing's storied past.