Three hundred and five lives sheltered within. This is the Winkelturm at Feuerbach station. A survivor. One of four built in Stuttgart during the Second World War only this one remains.
Imagine the fear the people felt during the air raids. Seeking refuge in this round bunker. Its angled roof designed by Leo Winkel to deflect falling bombs. The Winkelturm was more than just a shelter it was a symbol of hope amidst the chaos. Built in 1939-40 it served railway workers and passengers.
Its unique architecture is striking. Its round shape and pointed roof are instantly recognizable. This distinctive design wasn’t just aesthetic. It was functional. The pointed roof helped to deflect bombs. Explosions occurred at the base reducing the damage to the shelter itself.
The Winkelturm is more than just a structure. It’s a historical monument. A reminder of the protective measures taken during a dark chapter in history. Today it stands as a testament to resilience and human ingenuity. It even houses an exhibition on air raid protection from 1933 to 1945 run by the Verein Schutzbauten Stuttgart e.V.
The Winkelturm has faced many challenges. Its original tiled roof was removed in 1972. It remained unprotected from the elements for many years. Thanks to the efforts of the Verein Schutzbauten Stuttgart e.V. the Winkelturm was extensively renovated in 2011. The original tiled roof was restored. The Winkelturm received the protection it deserved. This remarkable feat cost the association €35000.
Since 1996 the Winkelturm is a listed building. Its story isn’t just about its past. It is about its future too. As a museum it educates visitors. It shares the stories of those who sought safety within its walls. The Winkelturm stands as a reminder of the past. It is a crucial part of Stuttgart’s identity. It ensures that the sacrifices and resilience of the past are never forgotten. The Winkelturm stands tall a powerful symbol of hope and endurance. A silent witness to history it stands today on Wiener Platz.