Bismarck Tower on Wieżyca

The Bismarck Tower on Wieżyca is a stone observation tower standing on the summit of Wieżyca in the Mount Ślęża massif. It belongs to the group of 172 Bismarck Towers preserved to this day around the world and is open to visitors.

An idea of students from Wrocław

Construction was initiated by the Wrocław Students' Association. The foundation stone was laid on 13 May 1906, and the official opening took place on 21 June 1907. The design, titled "Twilight of the Gods", was prepared by architect Wilhelm Kreis, who also designed many similar towers in Germany and in the former eastern German territories.

Granite from Ślęża

The tower was built using granite quarried on site, in the Ślęża massif. It is 15 metres tall, and 60 internal steps lead to the top. Originally there was a fire bowl at the top, which was later removed. In 1992 the structure underwent renovation.

View from Wieżyca

Wieżyca lies in the Mount Ślęża massif, one of the most distinctive elevations of Lower Silesia, visible from afar against the surrounding plains. The viewing terrace at the top of the tower offers a view over the neighbouring range and the Sudetes lands stretching out below.

Around the Ślęża massif

Nearby lie other points worth visiting on the same hike: Mount Ślęża with the Mount Ślęża Nature Reserve, the ruins of the medieval castle on Mount Ślęża, and the Ślęża Museum in Sobótka, where you can learn more about the history of the whole massif.

Practical information

• Location: summit of Wieżyca in the Mount Ślęża massif, Sobótka municipality
• Access is via hiking trails running through the Mount Ślęża massif; it is worth checking the exact route before setting out
• The interior of the tower and the viewing terrace are open to visitors; it is worth confirming hours and any restrictions on site or at the tourist information point in Sobótka