Eschenheimer Turm, Medieval gate tower in Innenstadt, Germany

The Eschenheimer Turm is a 47-metre gate tower with a square base and eight levels. Its round upper section carries a projecting battlement on corbels and a steep spire flanked by four small side turrets. The tan masonry is pierced by plain rectangular windows, and two pointed roofs rise at the base.

The structure was built between 1400 and 1428 under architect Madern Gerthener's direction. It was one of roughly sixty defensive gates that protected medieval Frankfurt.

Two coats of arms are carved in relief on the tower. Facing the city is a silver eagle on a red field, the arms of the free imperial city of Frankfurt; on the opposite side a black double-headed eagle on a gold field, the arms of the Holy Roman Empire. The portrait in relief above the restaurant entrance on the city side is most likely that of builder Madern Gerthener.

A restaurant occupies the ground floor, while meeting spaces on upper levels are accessed through the preserved original staircase. Visitors should remember this is an active workspace and plan visits accordingly.

The tower survived demolition in the early 1800s because French diplomat Count d'Hédouville advocated for its preservation during the occupation period. This intervention saved one of the city's rare original gate structures.