Sint-Lievensmonstertoren, Gothic church tower in Zierikzee, Netherlands.
Sint-Lievensmonstertoren is a Gothic church tower rising approximately 62 meters with a square base measuring about 24.5 meters on each side. The structure displays characteristic Gothic architectural details that define its appearance across the Zierikzee skyline.
Construction started in 1454 under architect Andries I Keldermans but faced financial difficulties and halted in 1530. The tower reached only about one-third of its originally envisioned height at that point.
The name 'monster' refers to a minster or cathedral rather than a mythical creature, reflecting medieval religious terminology in this region. Visitors can see this historical naming convention mentioned in various plaques and local references around the structure.
Access to the viewing platform requires climbing an internal staircase of 281 steps, which offers views over the surrounding area. Visitors should consider weather conditions and personal fitness levels before ascending, as the climb can be quite demanding.
If the project had been completed according to its original plans, the tower would have reached approximately 204 meters in height. This would have made it the tallest church structure in medieval Europe.
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