Keßlerturm: Bernburg's Panoramic Perch

The Keßlerturm, a beloved landmark of Bernburg (Saale), stands proudly in the Krumbholz park, offering visitors stunning views of the city and surrounding Saaletal. This 26-meter-high observation tower was erected in 1913, a generous gift from the local factory owner, Theodor Keßler, who donated 12,000 marks for its construction. Keßler himself chose the location and design of the tower. To ensure the view was satisfactory, a 20-meter wooden scaffold was erected before construction began. The tower was designed by Georg Kalbfleisch in the neogothic style, and its foundation stone was laid on May 3, 1913. The grand opening took place on October 16th of the same year. The tower's red brick construction and the octagonal shape, topped with a crenelated crown, make it a striking feature in the landscape. A winding staircase leads to the observation platform. Over the years, the Keßlerturm has faced challenges. Vandalism in the late 1940s left it in poor condition, necessitating a first renovation in 1950. Further repairs were carried out in 1982/1983, 2003 and 2006. Since March 2007, the Lebenshilfe Bernburg has been responsible for the tower's operation. Visitors can admire a poem by F. Blachny inside the tower, celebrating the structure's enduring presence. From the top, the panorama includes the city, the Saale valley, and, on clear days, even the Brocken mountain, approximately 75 km away. Today, the Keßlerturm serves as a popular tourist attraction and a testament to Bernburg's history and community spirit.