MesseTurm, Frankfurt Travel Guide

4.5 (1265)

Experience Frankfurt's iconic MesseTurm, a symbol of architectural innovation and economic power, with its distinctive design and the renowned 'Hammering Man' sculpture.

The MesseTurm, or Trade Fair Tower, is a prominent skyscraper in Frankfurt, Germany. Designed by Helmut Jahn in a postmodern architectural style, it stands as a design classic and a symbol of Frankfurt's economic prowess. Completed in 1991, it was once the tallest building in Europe. Locals affectionately call it 'the Pencil' due to its distinctive shape. While not open to the public for panoramic views, its unique architecture, including the pyramid-shaped top, and the 'Hammering Man' sculpture in front of the building, make it a worthwhile sight. The MesseTurm is primarily an office building and is easily accessible via public transport and offers underground parking.

A brief summary to MesseTurm

Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 49, Frankfurt, Frankfurt-Innenstadt II, 60308, DE
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring MesseTurm.

Visit the 'Hammering Man' sculpture in front of the MesseTurm, a symbol of work and solidarity, and a great photo opportunity.
Explore the area around the MesseTurm, including the Frankfurt Trade Fair grounds and the Skyline Plaza shopping center.
Take a walk around the MesseTurm at dusk or after dark to appreciate its illuminated beauty.

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Explore MesseTurm on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take the S-Bahn lines S3, S4, S5, or S6 to the 'Frankfurt (Main) Messe' station. The journey takes approximately 5 minutes, and trains depart frequently. From the station, the MesseTurm is a short walk away, clearly visible. A single ticket costs around €3. Alternatively, take the U-Bahn line U4 to 'Festhalle/Messe' station, which is also a short walk to the MesseTurm. The cost is approximately €3.
Walking

From Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the MesseTurm. Head northwest on Düsseldorfer Straße, then turn onto Platz der Republik and continue onto Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage. The MesseTurm will be visible on your right. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to the MesseTurm typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €11-€14. This is a convenient option, especially with luggage.
Driving

If driving, use the address Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 49, 60308 Frankfurt am Main for your GPS. The MesseTurm has an underground parking garage (APCOA Parkhaus Messeturm) with ample parking spaces. Parking fees are approximately €3.90 per hour. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Discover more about MesseTurm

The MesseTurm, rising 256.5 meters (843 feet) over Frankfurt's Westend-Süd district, is more than just a building; it's an icon. Completed in 1991, this 63-story skyscraper, whose name translates to “Trade Fair Tower,” held the title of Europe's tallest building until 1997. Designed by the renowned German-American architect Helmut Jahn, the MesseTurm is a prime example of postmodern architecture, drawing inspiration from the American skyscrapers of the 1920s and 30s. Its distinctive design and striking red granite facade have earned it a place among Europe's most celebrated skyscrapers. Frankfurters often affectionately refer to the MesseTurm as 'Bleistift' – meaning 'Pencil' – a nod to its slender, cylindrical form topped with a pyramid. This unique shape makes it instantly recognizable on the Frankfurt skyline. The building's design incorporates a variety of geometric shapes, starting with a square base that transitions into a cylindrical form before culminating in the pyramid at its peak. The pyramid, however, is not accessible to the public, housing essential building services. The MesseTurm's construction was an engineering feat in itself. Building on Frankfurt's clay required innovative solutions, resulting in a record-breaking continuous concrete pour for the foundation. Ninety trucks worked for 78 hours to pour concrete into the 6-meter deep foundation. The building has its own postal code, 60308. While the MesseTurm primarily serves as an office building, it contributes significantly to Frankfurt's vibrant urban landscape. The lobby was renovated in anticipation of the building's 30th anniversary. The renovation included a 17-meter high glass facade on each of the tower's four sides, extending outward from the current facade to enlarge the lobby space. A new café bar and restaurant offer spaces for indoor and outdoor enjoyment, catering to both employees and visitors. The entrance hall is defined by natural elements such as stone and abundant daylight, creating a seamless blend of interior and exterior spaces. The presence of trees, a plethora of plants, and a towering fountain wall not only brings a touch of nature inside the building but also enlivens the space and purifies the air. Standing in front of the MesseTurm is the 'Hammering Man,' a kinetic sculpture by American artist Jonathan Borofsky. This 21.5-meter tall artwork depicts a figure perpetually hammering, symbolizing work, action, and solidarity. The 'Hammering Man' has become an integral part of the MesseTurm's identity and a popular subject for photographs. Located near the Frankfurt Trade Fair grounds, the MesseTurm is easily accessible and surrounded by a mix of commercial and cultural attractions. While visitors cannot ascend to the top for panoramic views, the building's architectural significance and the surrounding area offer a compelling experience. The MesseTurm is a testament to Frankfurt's economic strength and architectural innovation, making it a must-see landmark for anyone visiting the city. Despite its name, the Messeturm is not used for trade fair exhibitions but as an office building. Tenants of MesseTurm include BNY Mellon, Flick Gocke Schaumburg and Oliver Wyman. The MesseTurm is the venue of the SkyRun Frankfurt, a vertical running competition in which participants have to climb a total of 1,202 steps and 222 meters (728 feet) of altitude to reach the finish. The MesseTurm's design is similar to towers such as the Bank of America Plaza in Atlanta, Georgia and Key Tower in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2023, when Germany submitted its application to have Frankfurt selected as the seat of the European Union's Anti-money-laundering authority (AMLA), the Messeturm was one of three options presented as a potential location for the new agency. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply a traveler seeking to experience Frankfurt's unique character, the MesseTurm is a destination that should not be missed. Its blend of architectural grandeur, artistic expression, and historical significance makes it a true landmark of the city.