As one of the oldest preserved structures in Frankfurt’s city center, the Eschenheimer Tower provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval Germany. It dates back to the 15th century, when it was erected to serve as a gate in the ramparts that once enclosed the city. On a visit to Eschenheimer Tower be sure to view the interior, which is split into eight floors, for a sense of its internal dimensions.
Today, the gateway stands tall and solitary in the Eschenheimer Tor plaza, where its medieval charm makes it stand out from the surrounding modern skyscrapers. Notice the tower’s rectangular base and cylindrical body, with windows, fairy-tale turrets and a green, pointed roof.
Despite being dwarfed by the enclosing high-rises, the tower is tall by medieval architectural standards, with a height of 154 feet (47 meters).
Enjoy a drink or a meal at the modern and stylish bar on the ground floor. For a quainter picture, savor a glass of smoky whiskey in the home-like fireplace room, with its white walls and timber framework up a creaky flight of wooden steps.
You can also choose from the bistros and bars in the adjacent plaza, in full view of the majestic tower. See it at night, when its underside is illuminated by lanterns.
The city walls once contained almost 60 towers, most of which were demolished in the 1800s. The Eschenheimer Tower is one of three towers to survive the destruction of the ramparts. Note that the living area for the tower guard was in use until 1956.
Eschenheimer Tower marks the northern end of the old walled city in central Frankfurt. Travel by U-Bahn to the Eschenheimer Tor station and get around the Old Town quarter on foot.
See some of the other notable nearby sights, such as the Casino Royal, MyZeil shopping center and Klaus-Mann Platz.
