Reckturm, Medieval defense tower and weapons museum in Wiener Neustadt, Austria
The Reckturm is a corner tower of the former city wall with thick stone walls and architectural features from the 15th century. Inside, a weapons museum collection spreads across multiple floors for visitors to explore.
The tower's foundations date to the early 13th century, and it later served as a prison where interrogations took place until the 19th century. After that period, the structure lost its role in city defense.
The interior houses a private weapons collection with firearms from between 1630 and 1950 and cutting weapons from the Imperial Army. The displays show how weapon technology and military traditions took root in this region over the centuries.
The tower is located at the corner of Reyergasse and Petergasse in the city center and is relatively easy to reach on foot. It is recommended to check opening hours before visiting, as access may be limited seasonally.
In 1901, art historian Franz Staub saved the tower from demolition and initiated a reconstruction based on 15th-century specifications. This restoration is considered one of the early examples of heritage-appropriate renovation in Austria.
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