Turamichele, Annual autumn celebration in Rathausplatz, Augsburg, Germany
Turamichele is an autumn festival in Augsburg's central Rathausplatz featuring a mechanical figure of Archangel Michael battling a dragon. The figure emerges from a window in the Perlach Tower at hourly intervals, creating a recurring display that draws crowds throughout the event.
The tradition originated in medieval times when the Perlach Tower became a symbol of Augsburg's religious identity. The mechanical display was added later, combining medieval craftsmanship with the religious narrative that had long defined the city.
The name Turamichele comes from Old High German meaning 'Gate of Michael', reflecting the city's deep connection to the Archangel. Visitors witness families gathering to admire the mechanical figure as it emerges from the tower, keeping this tradition alive through shared experience.
The festival takes place in late September using the central Rathausplatz, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city. The mechanical figure appears on the hour, so arriving early helps secure a good viewing spot for the regularly repeated show.
The mechanical figure was built in the 17th century and ranks among Europe's oldest functioning theatrical mechanisms. Visitors often overlook the fact that each movement is controlled by an intricate system of gears and levers that still operates after hundreds of years.
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