Flatowturm (Flatow Tower), Potsdam

Flatow Tower (Flatowturm) is a striking architectural landmark situated within Babelsberg Park in Potsdam. Constructed between 1853 and 1856 under the direction of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the tower was designed by Johann Heinrich Strack. Its design was inspired by the medieval tower at Eschenheimer Gate in Frankfurt am Main, reflecting the neo-Gothic style popular at the time. The tower stands 46 meters tall and is surrounded by a star-shaped moat, although the original drawbridge that once provided access no longer survives.

Named after the Flatow estate in West Prussia-a property that provided the financial means for its construction-the tower was part of Wilhelm I's broader architectural vision of creating lookout structures on elevated sites within the Potsdam area. The tower served multiple purposes for the imperial couple, who used it both as a guesthouse and as a place to store and display items from their collections.

Visitors to Flatow Tower are treated to an immersive experience of historical architecture and breathtaking views. The interiors of the tower retain some of the original décor, offering a glimpse into the past. As visitors ascend the tower, they can appreciate the changing perspectives of Babelsberg Park, with views expanding as they move higher. The top platform, which encircles the tower, provides a panoramic view over the park and the surrounding cityscape, making it a popular spot for those looking to take in the beauty of the area.

In addition to its historical and architectural significance, Flatow Tower also hosts a permanent exhibition that delves into the history of the tower, Babelsberg Park, and the landscape-design concept of "Sight." This exhibition enhances the visitor experience by providing context and depth to the already impressive visual and historical elements of the site.