Mangturm, Medieval fortified tower in Lindau, Germany
The Mangturm is a medieval fortified stone tower on the harbor promenade of Lindau, on Lake Constance in Germany. It stands about 65 feet (20 meters) tall and has a roof covered with colorful glazed tiles that make it easy to spot from a distance.
The tower was built around 1180 as part of Lindau's medieval city walls and originally stood directly in the water of the lake. After a new lighthouse was built in 1856, the tower was raised by one floor and covered with glazed tiles.
The name Mangturm comes from a nearby medieval warehouse called the Tuch- und Mangenhaus, used by cloth traders. The word "Mangen" refers to a machine that dyers used to smooth fabric.
The tower sits directly on the harbor promenade on the island of Lindau and is easy to reach on foot from the main train station. The interior with the viewing room is only open at certain times, so it is worth checking current hours before your visit.
A long blonde braid hangs from one of the tower windows as a nod to the fairy tale of Rapunzel, since the tower hosts regular storytelling events. Inside, a local artist painted the ceiling with coats of arms, names, and medallions depicting events and figures from Lindau's past.
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