Standing tall and proud in the picturesque town of Rottweil in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, the Rottweil elevator test tower, known locally as the TK Elevator Testturm, is a marvel of modern engineering and architectural ingenuity. This 246-meter-high structure, completed between 2014 and 2017 by Thyssenkrupp Elevator, is not just an industrial facility but also a significant tourist attraction, offering the highest visitor platform in Germany at 232 meters. As the second tallest elevator test tower in the world, it is a beacon of innovation and a testament to human ingenuity.
The primary function of the Rottweil elevator test tower is to serve as a testing ground for express and high-speed elevators. With its unique design and cutting-edge technology, it allows for the simulation of real wind loads using a vibration pendulum within the tower shaft. This feature makes it the first structure in the world capable of such simulations, ensuring that elevators tested here can withstand various environmental conditions. The tower’s shaft extends to a total length of 275.5 meters, including its underground levels, providing ample space for comprehensive testing of elevator systems.
Designed by renowned architects Helmut Jahn and Werner Sobek, the Rottweil elevator test tower is an architectural masterpiece. Its exterior is wrapped in a special glass fiber textile along a spiral-shaped tube, which defines the tower’s unique and striking appearance. This textile cladding makes it the tallest textile-clad building in the world, adding to its list of unique features. The design not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also contributes to the structural integrity and functionality of the tower.
The journey to the construction of the Rottweil elevator test tower was marked by meticulous planning and community involvement. Originally, the tower was to be built in the Neckartal industrial area, but geological surveys and test drilling revealed the site to be unsuitable. Instead, the Berner Feld industrial area, located about 1.5 kilometers north of Rottweil’s city center, was chosen. This location was favored for its proximity to the production site and the availability of skilled labor and students in the region.
The planning process involved multiple stages, including public consultations and council meetings. Despite some initial concerns about the tower’s impact on Rottweil’s historical cityscape, the project received approval, with the hope that it would attract tourists and boost the local economy. The foundation stone was laid on December 16, 2014, marking the beginning of an ambitious construction project that would involve over 150 engineers and 160 workers.
The construction of the Rottweil elevator test tower was a feat of engineering. The tower was built using the slipform construction method, where the formwork and working platform are continuously moved upwards as the vertical structure is poured. This method allowed the tower to grow by up to 5.6 meters each day. The first phase of construction began on March 10, 2015, and reached ground level after nine days. The completion of the tower’s shell was celebrated with a topping-out ceremony on July 29, 2015.
The interior construction followed, involving the installation of intermediate floors and the vibration pendulum. The final phase included the installation of the steel and membrane façade, a complex process that required the expertise of industrial climbers working in shifts. The tower was officially put into operation in December 2016, with the observation deck opening to the public on October 7, 2017.
Since its opening, the Rottweil elevator test tower has become a popular tourist destination. The observation deck, accessible from Friday to Sunday and on public holidays, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery and gain insight into the innovative technology behind modern elevator systems.
The tower’s unique design and significant height make it a landmark in the region, drawing visitors from near and far. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, architectural beauty, and stunning views, the Rottweil elevator test tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Baden-Württemberg.
The Rottweil elevator test tower is more than just a testing facility for elevators; it is a symbol of innovation and progress. Its impressive height, unique design, and advanced technology make it a standout structure in the world of engineering and architecture. Whether you are an engineering enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Rottweil elevator test tower promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
