Eselsturm, Medieval tower at Regensburg Cathedral, Germany.
The Eselsturm is a medieval tower at Regensburg Cathedral located on the northeastern side of the building. It contains a tight spiral staircase that winds upward through multiple levels of the cathedral structure.
The tower was built during the cathedral's construction period and served an important function in moving heavy materials upward. A pulley system inside allowed workers to hoist supplies and building components to higher levels.
The name comes from an old hoisting device that was used to lift heavy materials during construction. This differs from local stories that mention donkeys climbing the internal stairs.
You will find the tower on the northeastern side of the cathedral, easily recognized by its round shape. Access to the tower depends on the cathedral's opening hours and any special restrictions on that day.
The spiral staircase was designed so narrow that large animals could not climb it, despite what the tower's name might suggest. This shows how practical function shaped the details of medieval design.
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