Meerhardtturm

Meerhardtturm is an observation tower made from Grauwackebruchstein on Meerhardt hill in Gummersbach, featuring neo-Gothic elements. The structure stands at about 291 meters in elevation and was designed to resemble a ruin.

The tower was built in 1908 at the initiative of textile manufacturer Karl Siebel and was managed by the Gemeinnützige Verein Dieringhausen association. Its design reflected the period's interest in medieval forms and castle architecture.

The tower follows the style of English landscape gardens and displays the medieval forms that were popular during the German Empire period. As you walk up the hill, you can clearly see how the architecture reflects the romanticism of that era.

Visitors can reach the site on foot using several marked hiking trails that lead to the viewpoint. The interior of the tower is not open, but the path up and the surrounding area make for an easy walk.

The structure received monument status in 1976 and is treated as both an artificial ruin and an architectural heritage site. This dual purpose makes it an unusual example of intentional imitation of historical forms.

Location: Gummersbach

GPS coordinates: 50.98810,7.51611

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:48