Donatsturm, Medieval defensive tower in Freiberg, Germany.
The Donatsturm is a medieval defensive tower in Freiberg measuring 35 meters high with a diameter of around 14 meters. Its thick stone walls contain large artillery openings on the upper floors and smaller gun slots lower down, which served its defensive purpose.
The tower was built around 1450 as part of Freiberg's city fortifications and protected the Donats Gate. In the 19th century it was converted into a grain storage facility, showing how the city's needs changed over time.
The tower takes its name from a former church dedicated to Saint Donatus of Arezzo that once stood nearby until 1443. This connection to a vanished place of worship remains part of the tower's identity in the city today.
The tower is best reached on foot and is located near Freiberg's historic city center. Visitors should be aware that access is from outside and the structure is clearly visible from street level.
The Donatsturm is the only round tower in Freiberg's original city wall system and stands out for its exceptionally thick walls. With a wall thickness of around five meters at the base, this construction offers a rare look at how medieval defensive towers were built.
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