Reichenturm

The Reichenturm, also known as Bohata wěža in Upper Sorbian, stands as a majestic sentinel at the eastern edge of the old town of Bautzen, in Saxony, Germany. This iconic structure, part of the city’s former fortifications, is not just a historical monument but a testament to the resilience and architectural prowess of the region. With its unique tilt, the Reichenturm is often referred to as the Leaning Tower of Bautzen, drawing comparisons to its famous counterpart in Pisa.

The History of the Reichenturm

The construction of the Reichenturm began in 1490, with the lower, round part of the tower being completed by 1492. Initially, the upper part of the tower was made of wood, as was common during that period. This tower was part of the extensive inner city fortifications developed in the 14th and 15th centuries to protect the town from invaders.

In 1555, a clock bell was added to the tower to chime the full hours, making it an essential part of the town's daily life. However, in 1593, the wooden upper section was dismantled and rebuilt due to the risk of collapse. During this period, a debtor's prison was also added to the city-facing side of the tower, highlighting its multifaceted role in the town’s administration.

The tower faced significant damage during the siege of Bautzen in 1620. On October 3rd of that year, it was set ablaze by Saxon troops, reducing it to a smoldering ruin. The reconstruction of the Reichenturm began in 1627, and by 1628, the roof trusses and the tower’s pinnacle were restored, although the clock bell was not replaced due to financial constraints.

Tragedy struck again in 1639 when the tower was set on fire by retreating Swedish troops, leaving it in ruins for 24 years. It wasn’t until 1663 that reconstruction efforts resumed, spurred by the collapse of the town hall tower in 1660. By June of the same year, the Reichenturm was restored, complete with a new roof and the bell from the town hall.

The tower’s turbulent history continued with another devastating fire in 1686, which left it in ruins for a decade. The reconstruction in 1696 saw the completion of the tower’s pinnacle and the installation of a new weather vane. Yet again, in 1709, a city fire originating in Hauensteinergasse destroyed the tower, leaving it as a ruin until 1715. A lottery organized by the town council in 1714 provided the necessary funds for its reconstruction, which began in April 1715. This time, the upper part of the tower was built in a more robust baroque style, designed by Johann Christoph von Naumann and executed by master builder Johann Christoph Steinert, reaching its current height of 56 meters by 1718.

The Leaning Tower of Bautzen

Over the years, concerns about the tower’s stability arose, particularly after the massive upper section was added. In 1747, it was discovered that the tower’s tip leaned more than half an ell (about 30 cm) towards the Reichengasse and Steingasse. The inadequate foundation, only 80 cm deep, combined with the effects of past fires, contributed to this tilt. Despite suggestions to replace the heavy upper section with a lighter wooden structure, these plans were never implemented. It wasn’t until 1953/54 that stabilization efforts successfully halted the tower’s tilt, although it still leans 1.44 meters from the vertical today.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The Reichenturm is not just a marvel of medieval and baroque architecture but also a cultural treasure. Attached to the tower was the Reichentor, a series of four gothic arches and a wall rondel, mostly demolished in 1837. The last remaining arch was removed in 1968 to accommodate traffic changes.

On the tower’s eastern side, a 2-meter-high relief from 1593 depicts Emperor Rudolf II with two heralds. This monument, originally part of the Reichentor, is a rare early modern tribute to the emperor, likely reflecting the town’s support for his campaigns against the Turks. After a partial conservation in 1994, the relief was fully restored in 2011.

The northern side of the tower still bears remnants of the old city wall, offering a glimpse into the town’s historical fortifications. These remnants highlight the strategic importance of Bautzen in the region’s defense.

Visiting the Reichenturm

Today, the Reichenturm is open to visitors from April to October. Climbing its spiral staircase rewards you with panoramic views of Bautzen and the surrounding countryside. As you ascend, you can almost hear the echoes of history reverberating through its walls, from the clang of the debtor’s chains to the crackle of the fires that once ravaged it.

In conclusion, the Reichenturm is more than just a leaning tower; it is a symbol of Bautzen’s resilience and architectural heritage. Its storied past and unique structure make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this picturesque Saxon town. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Reichenturm offers a fascinating journey through time.