Town Fortification Prenzlau - Hexenturm

The Hexenturm is a round tower inserted later into the town wall on the eastern flank of Prenzlau’s fortifications. Construction began in 1494; dendrochronological examination of original timbers built into the loopholes gave felling dates shortly after 1498, suggesting a building period of about five to six years. It served to strengthen the vulnerable eastern side and at the same time as a prison and watchtower. The chronicler Süring records that numerous women and girls suspected of witchcraft were held here; witch trials continued in Prenzlau until 1728.

The tower is a typical late-medieval brick round tower about 25 m high with five vaulted storeys and an oubliette about 8 m deep. The original entrance lies 3.50 m high and could be reached only by ladder. In the twentieth century a second access was broken through on the field side, leading directly into the oubliette. The top is finished with a battlemented crown (with heraldic decoration) and a stone conical roof that once carried a wrought-iron eagle. In 2011 the parapet walk and battlements were restored for 120,000 euros and a new external stair was added.