Elisenturm, Observation tower in Wuppertal, Germany

The Elisenturm is a 21-metre observation tower on the Hardt ridge north of the Wupper in Wuppertal. It stands on the foundation of a windmill built in 1812. Inside, a domed hall with a coffered ceiling above red marbled walls serves as an exhibition room and wedding venue.

The tower was built in 1838 on the site of a former windmill that stood there since 1812. Its construction was part of a country estate development by textile manufacturer Engelbert Eller.

The tower is named after Elisabeth Ludovika of Bavaria, called Elise, wife of King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia. The textile manufacturer and city councillor Engelbert Eller had it built in 1838 as an observatory on the Hardt estate he founded in 1820. Today the domed hall inside is used for exhibitions and as a wedding room.

The tower stands in the Hardt park, which became part of the Botanical Garden in 1910, so a visit can be combined with a walk through the garden. The tower itself is open within guided tours; the domed hall inside is used for exhibitions and as a wedding room. Check tour times before setting out, as access is not continuous.

The tower's name honours Elisabeth Ludovika of Bavaria, called Elise, wife of King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia. The textile manufacturer Engelbert Eller, a city councillor, built it in 1838 as an observatory on the foundation of a windmill from 1812. After the Second World War the Volkshochschule used it again as an observatory before decay closed it.