Pfannenstiel Aussichtsturm, Observation tower in Egg, Switzerland

Pfannenstiel Aussichtsturm is a steel and cast iron structure that rises 35 meters above the ground. The observation platform at about 33 meters elevation offers views across Lake Zurich, Lake Greifensee, and Lake Pfäffikersee.

The original structure was built in 1893 under a different name and was significantly taller than the current tower. The present form was constructed at this location toward the end of the 20th century.

The tower takes its name from the surrounding landscape and serves as a gathering point where visitors pause to observe the views. The platform displays engraved markers that help identify the visible mountains and lakes below.

The observation platform is reached by 174 steps over seven intermediate landings, so allow time for the climb. The tower stands above the Hochwacht restaurant on Egg municipal land, near the cantonal border with Meilen. The engraved panorama panels on the platform were renewed in spring 2016.

The tower is a rebuilt 1893 Bachtel tower, riveted from steel and grey cast iron. The Hungarian workers who reassembled it in 1992 used traditional hot riveting. Its platform carries an engraved Alpine pointer: a metal pin and engraved line let visitors sight peaks like gun sights. The 1992 plates were renewed in spring 2016.