From a phoenix’s ashes, the Seeparkturm rises. It stands tall, a wooden sentinel watching over Freiburg’s Seepark. This isn’t the original tower. The first Seeparkturm, built in 1986 for the Landesgartenschau, met a fiery end. In 2003, an act of arson reduced it to ashes. Imagine the shock and sadness of the Freiburg community. This structure, offering panoramic views of the park, the city, and even the distant Kaiserstuhl and Vosges mountains, was gone. But like a phoenix, the Seeparkturm was reborn. Using the original foundations and a mix of old plans and photographs, architect Richard Kramer and the Gampp carpentry firm from Schluchsee rebuilt the tower. The cost, around 200,000 euros, was covered by the fire insurance. The new Seeparkturm opened in 2004, a testament to the resilience of Freiburg. Even this newer tower has faced its challenges. In 2011, rot set in, requiring extensive repairs and a temporary closure. Then, in 2017, vandals removed screws from the railings, leading to another closure. A further closure followed due to rotting on the middle viewing platform. Each time, the Seeparkturm has been restored. It continues to offer breathtaking views from its 15-meter height. As you ascend its wooden stairs, remember its story of fire and rebirth, a small reflection of Freiburg’s enduring spirit. The Seeparkturm is more than just a viewpoint. It is a symbol of perseverance, a reminder that even from ashes, beauty can rise again.
Straßenwalze
Picture this a relic of Freiburg’s past. A Straßenwalze a road roller sits before you. Its iron frame speaks of