Stumpfer Turm, freistehender Glockenturm der evangelisch-reformierten Pfarrkirche St. Johann in Lemgo
Stumpfer Turm is a sturdy brick bell tower in Lemgo, all that remains standing from the original St. Johann church. Its narrow openings and simple tiled roof give it the appearance of a compact fortress, and it rises from a cemetery containing graves spanning several centuries.
A wooden structure stood on this spot around 780, later replaced by a stone church built during the 12th or 13th century. The tower survived wars and destruction, becoming the core of a growing settlement that developed into the town of Lemgo around 1190.
The tower has long served as the religious heart of the community, and its bells continue to shape the rhythm of daily life here. On Sundays and holidays, the historic bell from 1398 still rings before services, linking centuries of faith with the present day.
The tower is easy to reach and the grounds are open to visitors, making it perfect for a quiet visit or exploring local history. The combination of old stone, historic bells, and the green cemetery creates a serene setting that invites unhurried exploration.
The tower takes its name from its shape: because it lacks a pointed spire, locals call it Stumpfer Turm, meaning 'Stubby Tower,' matching its squat, box-like appearance. The oldest bell, cast in 1398, is among the rarest examples of Gothic bell craftsmanship in Westphalia.
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