Ernst Moritz Arndt Tower

The Ernst- Moritz- Arndt- Tower is an observation tower and memorial to Ernst Moritz Arndt. He stands on the Rugard northeast of Bergen auf Rügen. The built in brick tower was added to the list of monuments of the former district of Rügen.

Formation

In preparation for the 100th birthday of Ernst-Moritz- Arndt 1869 a " Committee for the establishment of an Arndt- monument " was formed under the leadership of Ruegen district administrator von Platen and the Bergen Mayor Dr. Richter. It has called for donations in the German public and asked the architect to designs. The foundation stone was laid on December 26, 1869, the anniversary day. Chosen the draft Royal Regierungsbauführers Hermann Eggert from Berlin, who held the top line of the building from start to finish. In the summer of 1872, the 13 foot high rock foundation of the tower was listed and made ​​the embankment in the following winter. 1873 emerged the first floor. After initially ran out of funds. Again were issued for donations, where Emperor Wilhelm I. 3000 Mark set ready. Only in 1875 were the second floor and the internal stairs are built. 1876 ​​followed the third floor and the dome, so that on October 6 this year Could be celebrated topping. 1877, 26.7 m high monument was completed.

Use

The tower served locals and visitors as a lookout. 1944, the former brick- dome was removed and a mounted anti-aircraft position. From 1945 to 1953, the tower was used by the Red Army. 1955, the platform was demolished and replaced by a new wooden dome.

Rehabilitation

In 1999, the city ordinance the city of Bergen on Rügen to renovate the tower and allow the original potential panoramic view by building a glass dome again decided. From 2000 to 2002, the restoration was carried out with the total cost of about 1.1 million DM On the 125th anniversary of the building of it was opened to the public again.

Architecture

The four-story round observation tower of brick situated on a landscaped hill with grand staircase. The expansive basement with surrounding gallery divided segmental arched niches, the second floor belochten high arched windows that are on the third floor to round arches of a covered gallery. The fourth floor with cast iron spiral staircase and viewing gallery carries a glass dome roof.