Schwabentor

The Schwabentor is a medieval stone gate tower in Schaffhausen marked by a mansard roof, clock niches with frescoes, and connecting sections of the old city wall. The structure stands where several streets meet and serves as a landmark in the northern section of the city's medieval fortifications.

The tower was first recorded as Neuturm in 1361 and marked the northern defensive point against Swabia. It suffered severe damage from a major fire in 1932 but was later rebuilt and restored to its current form.

Carl Roesch painted two meaningful frescoes in the clock niches that show cosmic cycles and the four stages of human life. These artworks shape how the tower looks today and tell of artistic traditions that defined Schaffhausen.

The tower sits at a central intersection and is easy to reach on foot while exploring the northern old town. The best views come from the surrounding streets, especially when approaching from different angles to see all of its details.

A weather vane shaped like a Schaffhausen ram sits atop the tower, while the southern archway displays the cautionary phrase 'Lappi tue d'Augen uf'. These details reflect local identity and a sense of humor built into the structure.

Location: Schaffhausen

Elevation above the sea: 398.1 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Part of: Town fortification Schaffhausen

Address: Adlerstrasse N.N., 8200 Schaffhausen

Website: http://stadtarchiv-schaffhausen.ch/pictures/Schwabentor1.htm

GPS coordinates: 47.69973,8.63540

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02