Perlachturm, Medieval watchtower in Augsburg, Germany

The Perlachturm is an octagonal tower in Augsburg rising 70 meters with a distinctive spire and bell tower, combining elements from different architectural periods. The structure reveals layers of construction spanning many centuries.

A watchtower about 30 metres tall was built in 989 on the site of burnt houses. In 1526 it was raised to 63 metres, and between 1612 and 1618 Elias Holl added an octagon with ten Doric columns and a dome, bringing it to 70 metres. The top floor burned in the RAF bombing of 25/26 February 1944 and reopened in 1950.

The name Perlachturm is disputed: a plaque on the tower derives it from Latin perlego, "read through", because the square served for public proclamations, while the common explanation links Old High German përo (bear) and lach (a show or fair) to medieval bear displays held before the watchtower. Around 29 September the Turamichele, an Archangel Michael figure, is shown in the tower.

Reaching the observation platform requires climbing 258 steps, which demands some physical effort. From the top, you gain sweeping views across Augsburg and the surrounding Bavarian landscape.

The name's origin is debated: one theory links Old High German përo (bear) and lach (a show or fair) to medieval bear performances on the square, where the tower's base still has walled-up arcades once used as bear pits. A plaque inside instead derives it from Latin perlego, "read through", as public proclamations were read here.