Martinsturm
30
Facilities
No information
Opening hours
Tuesday
10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday
10:00 - 18:00
Thursday
10:00 - 18:00
Friday
10:00 - 18:00
Saturday
10:00 - 18:00
Sunday
10:00 - 18:00
Weather for today
Additional conditions
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Description
Martinsturm is a historic tower in Bregenz that combines medieval character with Baroque style. Its distinctive onion-shaped dome was the first Baroque building on Lake Constance and the largest of its kind in Central Europe at its time.
Climbing the spiral staircase, you'll discover breathtaking views of Lake Constance and the majestic Alps - the perfect place for unforgettable photographs.
The interior of the tower has been transformed into a city museum, showcasing the region's rich history, including exhibits of sacred art and traditional costumes.
Reviews
★4.5
Cláudio Cardonaa year agoThe Martinsturm in Bregenz, Austria, is an exceptional historical site, rich in culture and history. This former grain storage tower, located in the first courtyard of the Counts of Bregenz, stands as a testament to the architectural and historical evolution of the city.
Architectural and Historical Significance
Originally a lower tower built in the first half of the 13th century, the Martinsturm was later elevated to its current height by the architect Benedetto Prato between 1599 and 1601. This transformation marked the tower as one of the first Baroque buildings in the Lake Constance region and home to the largest onion dome in Central Europe. The tower’s onion dome, built primarily for aesthetic rather than military purposes, makes it a distinctive landmark in Bregenz .
Cultural and Artistic Heritage
The tower has seen various uses over the centuries, from a defensive structure to a lookout point for fire watch. It has also housed a small military history museum and, since April 2015, a city history museum with a permanent exhibition. The Martinsturm’s history is intricately linked with the Martinskapelle (St. Martin’s Chapel), which was expanded in 1362 and features remarkable frescoes, some of which were rediscovered and restored between 1910 and 1914 by the painter Florus Scheel .
Visitor Experience
While the interior of the Martinsturm was closed to visitors in January 2024, its exterior remains a sight to behold. The tower’s impressive Baroque architecture and the largest onion dome in Central Europe are visually stunning. From its highest floors, visitors can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the city, though this was not possible during the renovation period .
Surrounding Area
Situated in the Bregenzer Oberstadt, the Martinsturm is part of a historical complex that includes the adjoining Martinskapelle and a residential building. The area is rich in history, with city walls dating back to the 13th-16th centuries still largely intact. The tower forms the northeast corner of this historical ring wall .
Overall Impression
The Martinsturm in Bregenz is a captivating historical site that offers a unique glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of the region. Its distinctive Baroque architecture and the artistic treasures within the adjacent chapel make it a worthwhile visit for those exploring Bregenz’s old town. While the interior was inaccessible for renovation, the tower’s external beauty and historical significance still provide a memorable experience for visitors.
Rishikesh Banore10 months agoView is good. There is a ticket for getting into tower.
Jen Gillman2 years agoGreat views and interesting exhibition about Bregenz. Unfortunately no translation available. Pretty cafe garden by entrance but seemed shut.Related categories
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