Grauer Turm, Fritzlar, Medieval defensive tower in Fritzlar, Germany
Grauer Turm is a medieval structure on the northwest side of the city wall with a distinctive horseshoe-shaped base. The building rises several stories and offers views over the city from its upper levels.
Built by Mainz rulers after Fritzlar's destruction by Hessian troops, the structure was first recorded in 1274. It served as part of the city's defensive system during the medieval period.
The tower houses exhibitions about witch hunts that reveal a difficult chapter in the region's past. From here, visitors can see how the old city was organized around its religious and political centers.
Visitors should be prepared for stairs as the building spans multiple levels and requires some physical effort to explore fully. Clear weather makes visits most rewarding, especially for views from the upper floors.
The third floor displays a detailed wooden model of the entire city of Fritzlar as it appeared around 1500. This model offers visitors a hands-on understanding of how the medieval city was laid out and built.
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