Half-Tower (Halbenturm) in Lübeck

Historic Building in Lübeck

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Elusive Elements Pho

The Half-Tower (Halbenturm) in Lübeck is a lesser-known but historically interesting remnant of the city’s medieval fortifications. As the name suggests, it is a semi-circular or “half” tower, meaning it was open at the back—a design commonly used in city defenses during the Middle Ages to save on construction costs while still providing protection. Located along what was once part of the city wall, the tower was one of many structures built to defend Lübeck when it was a major center of trade in the Hanseatic League.

The Halbenturm was part of the larger network of fortification towers and gates that surrounded Lübeck, especially important in the 13th to 15th centuries when the city was at its economic peak. These towers allowed guards to monitor incoming traffic and protect against attacks from both land and river routes. While many of the city’s original defensive structures have been demolished or significantly altered, the Half-Tower stands as a rare surviving example of military architecture from that period.

Though small and not as famous as the Holstentor or Burgtor, the Half-Tower has historical value due to its authentic medieval structure and quiet presence amid the city’s more visited landmarks. It offers insight into how Lübeck’s urban defenses were structured—not just with grand gates, but also with simpler towers designed for practical use.

Today, the tower is generally not open to the public as an interior exhibit, but it can be viewed from the outside as part of a walking tour of Lübeck’s Old Town. It’s often appreciated by those interested in military history, medieval architecture, or off-the-beaten-path historical sites. Its modest size and aged brickwork make it an evocative feature of the city’s past.

The Half-Tower (Halbenturm) in Lübeck appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lübeck!

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