Hexenturm, Medieval tower gate in Jülich, Germany
The Hexenturm is a medieval gate tower in Jülich featuring two stone towers equipped with archer loopholes for defensive purposes. The structure reaches approximately 12.75 meters (42 feet) in height and contains walls around 2.30 meters (7.5 feet) thick.
The gate tower was built in the early 14th century as part of Jülich's fortifications. It was later converted into a prison facility for the Duchy of Jülich and served an important function in enforcing local justice for centuries.
The name 'Witch Tower' emerged in the 18th century when the structure served as the main prison of Jülich and held suspected individuals. This function deeply shaped how local people viewed and remembered the place.
The tower stands on the eastern side of Walramplatz and is easily accessible from the city center. As an outdoor structure, visitors can view it at any time of day depending on their schedule and preferences.
Following a restoration in 1964, the towers regained their distinctive onion-shaped roofs after medieval battlements had replaced these for centuries. This roof style now gives the structure its recognizable appearance and connects history with local architectural tradition.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
