Cat Tower in Bad Salzuflen

The imposing watchtower, which was built in the second half of the 15th century, goes by the unusual name "Katzenturm" (Cat Tower). It is the only one of the formerly three defensive towers integrated into the city wall that has survived.

The Katzenturm was once part of an "early warning system." It stood at the highest point of the city fortifications. From here, one could have an excellent overview of the area in front of the city wall and, for example, recognize advancing troops in good time. Additionally, there was a sightline from the tower to the watchtower located about two kilometers away, known as the "Stumpfen Turm" on the Alte Vlothoer Straße. The latter presents itself to hikers today as a picturesque tower ruin, which can, however, be quickly overlooked in the dense foliage of the forest.

The name “Katzenturm” has, by the way, nothing to do with our pet. The name likely derives from the Middle High German word “Katte,” which means nothing other than rampart. Thus, the name of the tower gives us a hint about its former function.

At times, the Katzenturm was also referred to as “Diebesturm” (Thief Tower) because small crooks and thieves had to serve their punishment in a detention cell here. The door to the former “dismal chamber” is at ground level facing the Turmstraße.