“A forgotten sentinel a silent guardian” That’s how the old Zurich guide described the Krattenturm. Right here where we stand there once stood a mighty tower. The Krattenturm a vital part of Zurich’s medieval defenses. Built in the mid-14th century it served as a crucial outpost. It guarded the Letzigraben a strategically important ditch. This natural defense line blocked access from the Glatt valley to the Limmat valley.
Imagine the scene. Enemies approaching from the north. Quick action was needed. Trees were felled. Obstacles were created along the Letzigraben. Local militias sprang into action. They defended the city delaying any attack. The Krattenturm played a key role. It stood at the upper end of the Letzigraben between two deep ravines.
It was a strong point a signal station. Its location provided excellent visibility far into the Glatt valley. Spotting enemies was easy. Smoke signals could be sent to warn the city. The smoke came from burning resin. This resin was kept in a basket or ‘Kratte’ at the top of the tower. This signaling device gave the tower its name the Krattenturm.
The Krattenturm wasn’t just a lookout post. It witnessed historical events. From 1351 to 1354 Zurich faced attacks from Duke Albrecht of Austria. The Klingenberger Chronicle tells of battles fought near the Letzigraben and the Krattenturm. The battles were fierce yet Zurich held strong.
Then came the Old Zurich War in 1443-1444. The Swiss Confederates besieged the city. Their attacks failed but they destroyed the Krattenturm on April 30 1444. Gerold Edlibach documented this event in his Zurich Chronicle of 1478. The stones of the Krattenturm were reused. They became building materials for nearby structures. Nothing remains today but its memory and legacy live on.
The Krattenturm’s image is now on the Oberstrass district’s coat of arms. It is a proud symbol of the district’s history. A reminder of a time when this very spot played a vital role in protecting Zurich. A reminder of the courage and resilience of its defenders. So next time you see the Krattenturm emblem take a moment to remember this lost tower and its important role.