Augsburg's Perlachturm Hollowed Out for Extensive Renovation

Augsburg's iconic Perlachturm, a 400-year-old landmark, is currently hollow as it undergoes a comprehensive renovation. The approximately nine million euro project involves the complete restoration of the roughly 70-meter-tall tower, including the recent removal of its internal reinforced concrete staircase.

The city announced that the tower will remain empty until autumn 2027, when the modernization is scheduled for completion. Visitors will then be able to ascend a new staircase to the observation deck, offering views of the 2,000-year-old city.

The Perlachturm, situated next to the Renaissance city hall, boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Records suggest a 30-meter watchtower was built on the site in 989, possibly housing a fire bell for warnings. The tower was extended in the 16th century and given its current appearance through renovations starting in 1612.

During the modernization efforts in July 2025, a spectacular incident occurred when the removal of the tower's onion dome was attempted. The operation was initially thwarted because the necessary lifting platform was too short, based on incorrect calculations. After several days, a higher platform was procured, allowing the dome to be successfully removed on the second attempt. The dismantled dome is currently displayed as an information pavilion on the town hall square, awaiting its reinstallation atop the renovated tower.

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the approximately 70-meter-high tower is empty