Schinderhannes Tower, Medieval defensive tower in Simmern, Germany
Schinderhannes Tower is a medieval defensive structure made of quarried stone at the eastern corner of the former city fortification in Simmern. The building has a steep baroque conical roof and a western staircase that was added in 1750.
The building was originally constructed as a powder magazine and prison cell and survived the fire of 1689 that destroyed much of Simmern. Its existence thus spans more than three centuries and reflects the changing history of the city.
The tower bears the name of Johannes Bückler, a notorious criminal who managed to flee from this structure when it served as a prison in 1799. This daring escape became a local legend and connects the place to stories of defiance that people in the region still remember.
The tower is open to visitors during certain weekdays and times, with upper floors displaying exhibitions and information. The ground floor dungeon has special access arrangements that you should check before planning your visit.
The tower gained its name from a spectacular escape that took place in 1799 and drew the attention of the entire region. This event made the prison notorious and continues to shape how the building is remembered today.
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