Originally called “Red Q”, the Spittlertorturm stands as a proud sentinel. It is a testament to Nuremberg’s rich history. The Spittlertorturm, an old gate in the southwest of Nuremberg’s city wall, carries tales within its stones. Its name comes from the nearby Elisabeth Hospital of the Teutonic Order.
Imagine yourself transported back to the 14th century. The year is 1377. The Spittlertorturm is already documented as part of the city’s last defensive wall. This tower replaced an older one, the White Tower. It was previously known as the Inner Spittlertor.
The Spittlertorturm is one of the four main round towers of Nuremberg’s fortifications. These towers marked the corners of the city’s defense system. The Spittlertorturm guarded the route towards Schwabach. It also protected the roads to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Donauwörth.
The Spittlertor complex includes more than just the Spittlertorturm. It also features the Spittlertorzwinger. In 1557, Jörg Unger transformed the tower into the round structure we see today. A new gate was added and together, they formed the Spittlertorzwinger.
Consider the changes this area has undergone. As traffic increased, the Ludwigstor was built to the west. This new gate managed the flow of vehicles. However, the Spittlertor remained a passage for pedestrians only.
During the Second World War, the Spittlertorturm was repurposed. It became a high-rise bunker after undergoing structural changes. Today, the Spittlertorturm houses the library and archive of Nuremberg’s Garrison Museum. It has done so since July 2006. The tower’s armory now stands empty.
The Spittlertorzwinger, southeast of the Spittlertorturm, includes several key parts. There is the Spittlertorturm itself. There is also the city wall tower known as “Red P”. Buildings at the western and eastern corners of the Zwinger contribute to the complex as well.
Walk with me through the pedestrian paths east of the Spittlertorturm. Arched passageways lead through the city wall. These paths form the modern-day Spittlertor. Pass through the outer Zwinger wall. You can go through the gate building to the east. Or you can go through a passage south of the “Red P” tower.
Picture the Spittlertorturm in different eras. Imagine Rudolf von Alt’s watercolor from 1856. See the photographs from 1891. They capture the Spittlertorturm and its surroundings. Consider the image from around 1935. Each picture tells a story of change and resilience.
Even today, the Spittlertorturm stands firm. It has witnessed centuries of Nuremberg’s history. It has evolved from a defensive structure to a cultural landmark. The Spittlertorturm remains a powerful symbol of Nuremberg’s enduring spirit. As you stand before this historic tower, remember its journey through time.