Weckschnapp, Defensive tower in Cologne, Germany
The Weckschnapp is a tower from Cologne's medieval fortification system, positioned at the border between the Altstadt-Nord and Neustadt-Nord districts. Its stone walls clearly show how the structure once monitored the river and protected the city's perimeter.
The Weckschnapp was built in the Middle Ages as a defensive fortification to protect the city on the Rhine from attacks. It was part of a larger network of towers that together formed Cologne's defensive line.
The tower's name reflects its original defensive purpose and remains a recognized landmark among local residents. Its structure still shows the marks of its past as part of the city's protective system.
The tower is easy to find between the two districts, as it sits prominently along the Rhine riverside promenade. The location is accessible on foot and viewable from multiple angles.
The name likely refers to a specific type of lock or fastening mechanism used in the structure's construction. This practical detail reveals the resourcefulness of medieval builders in designing effective security features.
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