Pulverturm, Medieval defense tower in Lindau, Germany
The Pulverturm is a cylindrical stone tower with a conical roof rising from the western side of Lindau Island and overlooking Lake Constance. The structure spans three floors with thick masonry walls that demonstrate its solid construction.
The tower was built in 1508 as a defense structure and later converted to store gunpowder for the local militia by the late 1700s. This shift in purpose reflected changing military needs in the region.
The tower's name reflects its role as a powder storage facility for the local militia. Visitors can observe how this functional purpose shaped the building's design and thick masonry walls.
The tower now functions as an event venue with modern amenities including a kitchen and technical equipment spread across its three levels. Access between floors involves a narrow spiral staircase that requires some physical effort.
During renovation work in 1629, workers lowered the tent roof by 2 meters (6.5 feet) to reduce the target surface against potential enemy attacks. This practical modification reveals how military threats influenced the building's construction.
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