Bahnhofsturm

What secrets does a clock tower hold? The Bahnhofsturm, a proud sentinel of Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof, has witnessed more than a century of comings and goings. It has seen empires rise and fall, wars rage and end, and countless travelers pass through its grand station below. Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof itself is a marvel, a hub of activity since its grand opening in 1922. But today, our focus is on its towering companion, the Bahnhofsturm. The tower, reaching skyward 56 meters, is more than just a timepiece. It’s a beacon, visible from afar, drawing you towards the heart of Stuttgart. The Bahnhofsturm wasn’t always adorned with the glittering Mercedes star that now crowns its peak. That iconic symbol, five meters in diameter, was added in 1952, a testament to Stuttgart’s post-war resurgence and a nod to the city’s automotive prowess. The revenue generated from this prominent advertisement helped fund the station’s reconstruction after the ravages of World War II. Before the star, during its early years, the Bahnhofsturm housed a simple restaurant and a special waiting room, reserved for King Wilhelm II. Imagine the king, perhaps gazing out at the panoramic view, contemplating the affairs of state. Later, in 1926, the tower was transformed into a luxurious café, boasting a Sitzungssaal (meeting room), Teestube (tea room), Weinstube (wine bar), Speisesaal (dining hall) and a Dachrestaurant (rooftop restaurant). It was proudly advertised as the “Schönste Bahnhofs-Restaurationsräume Deutschlands” – the most beautiful station restaurant in Germany. From 1955 to 1976, the Bahnhofsturm even served as a hotel, offering weary travelers a place to rest their heads. In more recent times, the Turmforum occupied four floors, dedicated to sharing information about the controversial Stuttgart 21 project. And, for those seeking a unique wedding venue, the Bahnhofsturm offered a truly unforgettable setting, high above the bustling city, with ceremonies performed on the 9th floor. While the Bahnhofsturm underwent renovations, starting in 2020, the Mercedes star was temporarily relocated to the Mercedes-Benz Museum. But fear not, it returned to its rightful place in 2025, shining once more over Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof.