Ödenturm, Stone watchtower in Geislingen an der Steige, Germany
The Ödenturm is a solid stone tower standing about 33 meters high on a mountain spur overlooking Geislingen. The structure has exceptionally thick base walls and features an internal wooden staircase that leads to the top, where visitors can see views across the region.
The tower was built between 1150 and 1250 during the Staufen period and originally protected nearby Helfenstein Castle. From 1552 onward, it served as a fire watchtower for Geislingen, a role it maintained for many centuries.
The name comes from the German word 'öde', meaning isolated or barren, referring to its remote hilltop location above the town. It has become a landmark that people in Geislingen recognize from far away and connect with their city's identity.
The tower is normally open from May through October on Sundays between 10 AM and 5 PM with free entrance. Visitors should know that climbing involves an old wooden staircase and opening times may vary depending on weather conditions.
The tower was struck by lightning multiple times throughout its history, including a tragic incident in 1669 when a tower keeper died during a summer storm. These events are part of the local tradition and remind visitors of the dangers that came with the tower's exposed hilltop location.
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