Ever wondered what it takes to quench the thirst of industry? Here, looming over Wei\u00dfkirchen, stands the Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm. It is more than just a landmark. It’s a monument to ingenuity.
Visible even from Frankfurt, the Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm proudly marks its spot. Many commuters catch a glimpse of its slender form on their S5 train journeys. This technical monument is an iconic part of Wei\u00dfkirchen’s identity.
Once upon a time, the Erste S\u00fcddeutsche Ceresinfabrik Sch\u00fctz called this area home. Erected in 1942, the Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm played a vital role in their operations. Standing at an impressive 42.2 meters, it held 200 cubic meters of water.
But what did they need all that water for? The Ceresinfabrik specialized in candle production. Water, turned into steam, liquefied raw waxes. Then as cooling water, it solidified them into the candles we know. The Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm was the heart of that process.
Today, the Mazda Motor Europe GmbH owns the land and lovingly cares for the tower. It is a striking contrast to the modern Mazda research and development center. Mazda has invested over 600,000 Euros in its restoration. The aim is to preserve this piece of history.
Time and weather have taken their toll. The concrete exterior showed signs of wear. The steel within corroded. A specialized company created a restoration plan with the Denkmalschutzbeh\u00f6rde. The tower’s outer ring is getting a protective layer. This will help it withstand the elements for another 25 years. The wooden balcony around the first door at 15 meters will be replaced too.
Thankfully, the inner ring remains in good condition. Inside the Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm, a second cylindrical tower reaches the water tank. Old pump pipes with rusty bolts run up to the 40-meter mark. For now, they stay as they are.
Imagine the view from the top. A wonderful panorama unfolds. To the west lies Steinbach. To the south and east stretches Frankfurt. Fields lead towards Oberursel. In the distance, Bad Homburg’s White Tower and the Taunus mountains.
Access to this incredible view is limited. Mazda is hesitant to open the Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm to the public. However, there is a glimmer of hope. Perhaps, for the 30th anniversary of the research center, doors might open for a few hours.
The Wei\u00dfkirchener Wasserturm stands as a reminder of the past. It whispers tales of industry and innovation. A proud landmark watching over Wei\u00dfkirchen.