Explore the haunting history of Salzburg's Witch Tower, a site once used for incarcerating alleged witches. Delve into the dark tales of witch trials and the tower's transformation over the centuries in the heart of Austria's picturesque city.
Located in the Schallmoos district at the intersection of Paris-Lodron-Straße and Wolf-Dietrich-Straße, the site of the old Hexenturm Witch Tower is marked by a striking mosaic depicting a person being burned at the stake. This building, originally a prison for those accused of witchcraft, was heavily damaged during World War II bombings and subsequently demolished. However, the legacy of its grim past endures through stories and records.
Contrary to popular belief, Salzburg was not a hotspot for witch hunts, but it did witness several brutal instances under the rule of Prince Archbishop Max Gandolf von Kuenburg. Historical accounts suggest that suspected witches were confined in copper kettles within the Hexenturm to "neutralize" their supposed magical powers. This cruel practice disproportionately targeted poor and homeless youths.
An iron sculpture of a woman riding a stick, once decorating the Hexenturm, now resides in the Fortress Museum, a testament to the city's dark historical episodes.
One of the most notorious events associated with the Witch Tower is the Zauberer Jackel Trial. This trial resulted in the execution of approximately 160 individuals, mostly young vagabonds, accused of witchcraft. The central figure, Jakob Koller from Mauterndorf, miraculously escaped execution. This trial is often cited as one of the darkest periods in Salzburg's history.
Before its destruction in 1944, the Hexenturm served multiple purposes. Initially constructed as a prison, it was repurposed over the years. From 1897 to 1910, it was used by the company Josef Anton Zezi to store gunpowder, arms, and later building materials. In 1804, the tower transitioned into private ownership and continued to serve various functions, including a brief return to its original role as a prison.
Salzburg remains a popular European destination, easily accessible by air, rail, and bus. Visitors interested in exploring the city's historical sites, including where the Witch Tower once stood, can benefit from convenient Salzburg airport transfers. Booking these services in advance is recommended to avoid queues and ensure a smooth arrival.
The Witch Tower's story is a poignant reminder of the city's turbulent past, nestled within its now peaceful and scenic setting. Visitors and history enthusiasts are drawn to this site, not only for its historical significance but also for the lessons it imparts about tolerance and the dangers of superstition.
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