Ever wonder what secrets lie within those ancient stones? That is the Hexenturm. It stands as a silent witness to Würzburg’s tumultuous past. This imposing round tower with its overhanging upper story and conical roof dates back to the 14th century.
Once, the Hexenturm was called Henleinsturm. It may have been named after a tower guard. Later, it was known as Feyelsturm. The name Hexenturm evokes chilling memories of the witch hunts that gripped Würzburg from 1623 to 1629.
Imagine the suffering within these walls. The Hexenturm’s vaulted chambers allegedly held those accused of witchcraft. They were imprisoned and tortured here. Legend says Jesuit Father Friedrich Spee served as a confessor here for a time. This experience likely fueled his later writings against witch trials in 1632.
The Hexenturm was built around 1200. This happened during the southern expansion of the city walls. The Sander suburb was then integrated into the defense ring.
The tower’s appearance has changed over time. In 1861, it became private property. Two years later, the new owner replaced the conical roof. A fanciful crenellation was added.
The Hexenturm suffered heavy damage during the bombing of Würzburg on March 16, 1945. By 1962, it was almost completely torn down. Only the base remained. The tower was rebuilt as authentically as possible. The diameter of the circular structure is 7.5 meters. Five rooms were created on five floors.
Today, the Hexenturm serves a very different purpose. It houses the Finance Department and the Auditing Department of the University of Würzburg.
The Hexenturm stands in a row of houses on Ottostraße. It is located between Zwinger and Geschwister-Scholl-Platz. The tower is north of the New University.
As you stand before the Hexenturm, consider its complex story. It was once a defensive structure. It then became a place of fear and suffering. Now, it is a functional part of the university. The Hexenturm is a reminder of Würzburg’s layered history. It is a testament to the city’s resilience.