Hexenturm

The Hexenturm is a circular medieval defensive structure that rises behind the St. Walburga cemetery with five stories and substantial wall thickness. Despite its moderate size, the tower appears compact and fortified in its design.

The defensive tower was built in the second half of the 12th century by the Lords of Holtrop as a residential and protective structure, serving them until 1388. After that time, historical records about its use become unclear, though the building itself survived the centuries.

The tower's name reflects 19th-century romantic stories that connected imaginative tales to the structure itself. Visitors today encounter a legend that says more about that era than about the building's actual medieval purpose.

The tower stands next to the cemetery grounds and can be viewed from the outside, though interior access is not available for visitors. Approaching from the cemetery side gives the best views of the entire structure from multiple angles.

The tower was built using stone from a Roman aqueduct that once ran through Walberberg, linking the site to both ancient and medieval periods. This reuse of Roman materials is often overlooked by visitors but connects the tower to layers of history beneath the surface.

Location: Bornheim

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Elevation above the sea: 97.46 m

GPS coordinates: 50.79399,6.90986

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:23