Hexenturm: A Relic of Burg's Past

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Explore the Hexenturm in Burg bei Magdeburg: a medieval watchtower turned prison with a dark history of witch trials and local folklore.

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Hexenturm

The Hexenturm (Witches' Tower) in Burg bei Magdeburg is a historical landmark dating back to the 11th century. Originally a watchtower, it later served as a prison, particularly for women accused of witchcraft in the 17th century, hence its name.

A brief summary to Hexenturm

Burg bei Magdeburg, 39288, DE

Local tips

Visit the Hexenturm as part of a guided tour to learn about its full history and the stories of those imprisoned within its walls.
Combine your visit to the Hexenturm with a walk along the old city walls, where it is integrated near the Freiheitsturm.
Check out the Katzentreppe (cat staircase) next to the tower, which was historically used to transport stones for catapults.

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Getting There

Walking

The Hexenturm is located in the Altstadt (old town) of Burg, near the Freiheitsturm and integrated into the city wall. From the Burg train station, walk north along Bahnhofstraße, then turn left onto Magdeburger Straße. Continue straight, passing the Rathaus (town hall) on your right. Turn right onto Turmstraße; the Hexenturm will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the Hexenturm.
Public Transport

From Burg train station, take Bus 704 towards Hohenwarthe to the Burg, Berliner Straße stop. From there, walk along Berliner Straße, turn right onto Turmstraße, and the Hexenturm will be on your left. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes. A single bus fare is approximately €2-3.

Discover more about Hexenturm

The Hexenturm, or Witches' Tower, stands as a testament to Burg bei Magdeburg's rich and sometimes dark history. Constructed in the 11th century as part of the town's initial fortifications, the tower initially had a square design, serving as a watch and defense post. To better withstand cannon fire, it was later rounded. In the 17th century, the Hexenturm took on a more sinister role during the witch hunts, becoming a prison for women accused of witchcraft. The tower's six-meter-deep dungeon served as a grim holding cell, accessible only through a hole in the floor. Even after the witch trials subsided, the tower continued to function as a women's prison until 1846. Despite facing demolition in the 19th century, the Hexenturm was saved and eventually restored in 1985. Today, it stands as a protected monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the town's medieval past and the era of witch trials. Guided tours provide access to the tower's interior, revealing its history and significance.