Rüthener Hexenturm, Medieval defense tower in Rüthen, Germany
The Rüthener Hexenturm is a defense tower in Rüthen, North Rhine-Westphalia, featuring Gothic elements like thick stone walls and arrow slits. The structure rises across several stories and displays the half-round shape typical of medieval fortifications.
The tower was built around 1300 as part of Rüthen's city defenses. In the 17th century it underwent a grim transformation, serving as a prison during the regional witch hunts.
The tower preserves the stories of over 100 people from Rüthen who suffered during the witch hunts. The exhibition shows personal details about their lives and fates in a direct way.
Visitors can contact the Rüthen City Archives to arrange guided tours through the tower and its permanent exhibition. Exploration is available for both individuals and organized groups.
The exhibition displays replicas of historical torture devices and uses illuminated floor panels to illustrate the court procedures of that era. These details make the suffering and legal processes tangible for today's visitors.
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