Ochsenturm

Gazing upon the Ochsenturm, one might mistake it for just another charming tower. But the Ochsenturm holds centuries of Höchst’s history within its stone walls. This isn’t just a picturesque stop on our tour; it’s a time capsule waiting to be opened. The Ochsenturm stands proudly as part of Höchst’s old city fortifications. Its construction likely dates back to the 13th century. Originally, the Ochsenturm served as a freestanding watchtower. It stood guard before the old Gothic Zollburg, a precursor to the Höchst Schloss we see today. Imagine the view from atop, surveying the surrounding lands for potential threats. Höchst gained city status in 1355. In the following years, the city built its fortifications, incorporating the Ochsenturm. In 1396, a dispute over Höchst’s Main toll led to the destruction of the city and its castle by the Knights of Kronberg. This was done on behalf of Frankfurt’s council. The Ochsenturm endured. During the reconstruction efforts, the Ochsenturm became an integral part of the new city wall facing the Main river. The pointed angles where the remaining city walls meet the tower attest to this integration. The Ochsenturm’s three-story structure, reaching about 15 meters high, has seen minimal changes throughout the ages. Its lower section is made of rough, unplastered natural stones. Above, you’ll find the octagonal top floor, complete with a tower room and a slated, octagonal tent roof, crowned by a copper spire. While the tower room isn’t publicly accessible, it’s used for events by the tenant of the Neues Schloss whose garden encompasses the Ochsenturm. Inside, simple murals depict scenes from Höchst’s history. The 19th century brought expansion, and with it, the demolition of most of Höchst’s city walls. The Main-side wall, with its three towers, remained. This was partly because there was no room for expansion on this side. The wall served as protection from flooding. The Ochsenturm stands as a testament to a rich past. It whispers tales of watchmen, warring knights, and the bustling trade along the Main.