Prison Tower in Racibórz, Renaissance prison tower in Racibórz, Poland
The Prison Tower in Racibórz is a four-story structure with a rectangular base and corner turrets that rise from its foundation. The tower combines Gothic architectural elements in its lower sections with Renaissance features in its upper portions.
The tower was built in 1574 following a major fire that destroyed parts of the city. The reconstruction combined the preserved Gothic lower floors with newly added Renaissance features in the upper sections.
The tower houses a collection of historical punishment devices that reflect how justice systems worked centuries ago. Seeing these objects helps visitors understand how much ideas about punishment and human rights have changed.
The tower is generally open to visitors on weekends, allowing access to all four levels through its interior stairs. Wear comfortable shoes as the stairways are narrow and steep in places.
Poland's national mint honored the tower by featuring its image on a commemorative coin released in 2007. This recognition reflects the tower's importance as a symbol of the city's history.
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