Heavy anti-aircraft guns once roared atop the Feuerleitturm. This Flakturm, or flak tower, stands as a stark reminder of World War II. These towers were built in Berlin, Hamburg, and Vienna. They served as platforms for anti-aircraft cannons. They also provided shelter for civilians.
Flak towers were designed by Friedrich Tamms. He was a city planner from Schwerin. The towers had thick walls and ceilings made of steel-reinforced concrete. This made them incredibly robust. The Feuerleitturm could house up to 30,000 people in its shelters. The tower also stored valuable art and cultural treasures.
The Feuerleitturm was part of a system to defend against Allied air raids. The towers were equipped with radar. This radar helped to track enemy aircraft. The data was then fed to analog computers. These computers calculated the firing solutions for the anti-aircraft guns.
The main guns on the Feuerleitturm were 12.8 cm Flak 40s. These guns could fire up to 14.8 km high. They could also fire 20.9 km horizontally. Smaller 2 cm Flak guns were added for close defense.
During the Battle of Berlin, the Feuerleitturm became a major obstacle for the Red Army. The guns fired on Soviet tanks. The towers only stopped firing when the fighting in Berlin ended on May 2nd, 1945.
After the war, demolishing the Feuerleitturm proved difficult. The towers were too strong. They were also close to other buildings. Some towers were transformed into other uses. The Feuerleitturm in Humboldthain Park was partially demolished. Parts of it remain today. You can even visit the interior.
The Feuerleitturm is a reminder of a difficult time in history. It stands as a symbol of resilience. It shows the impact of war on the landscape. Today, the area around the Feuerleitturm provides tours by the Berlin Underground Association. Visitors should wear warm clothes. It can be cold inside, even in summer.