Highlight • Religious Site
Leaning Tower of Suurhusen
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The Suurhusen Church and its iconic Leaning Tower are a remarkable historical site nestled in the village of Suurhusen, within the low-lying East Frisian region of northwestern Germany. This late medieval religious building, constructed in the distinctive Brick Gothic style, is globally recognized for its extraordinary tilt. Standing at 27.37 meters tall, the tower's lean of 5.19 degrees once earned it a Guinness World Record as the most unintentionally tilted tower, famously surpassing the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Visitors are…
Cycling is not permitted at this location
Tips
January 28, 2017
Cycling
suurhusen-marienwehr.reformiert.de/kirchenfuehrungen-2946.html.
Afterwards, you can stop by at Café "Leaning Tower" and enjoy a cup of coffee and cake.
•January 28, 2017
Cycling
•January 28, 2017
Cycling
Tjabbo van Lessen (04925-525)
Hurries Dirks (04925-1895)
Hermann Mennenga (04925-2430)
kirchenfuehrung-suurhusen@gmx.net
April - October:
Monday and Thursday by appointment.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
In July and August, additional tours also take place on Sundays at the times listed above, except during church services.
In addition, further appointments can be arranged using the above telephone numbers.
The tours are free; at the exit we ask for a donation to preserve the Leaning Church.
Source: Ev.-ref. Parish of Suurhusen-Marienwehr
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Details
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Elevation 0 m
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Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reach Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower using public transport?
While direct public transport options to Suurhusen village might be limited, visitors often travel to the nearby city of Emden first. From Emden, you can typically find local bus services or taxis to reach Suurhusen. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, especially if visiting on weekends or during off-peak seasons.
Are there any admission fees to visit the Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower?
There is no admission fee to visit the Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower. Tours are free, but visitors are kindly asked to consider making a donation at the exit to help with the preservation and maintenance of this unique historical site.
Is the Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower wheelchair accessible?
Information regarding full wheelchair accessibility for the interior of the church and tower is not explicitly provided. The church itself is an old building, which may present challenges. It is recommended to contact the parish directly for specific accessibility details before your visit.
Can I take a guided tour of the church and tower, and how do I arrange one?
Yes, guided tours are available. From April to October, tours are generally offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. In July and August, Sunday tours are also available outside of church service times. For appointments outside these hours or for group bookings, you can contact the parish directly via email at kirchenfuehrung-suurhusen@gmx.net or by phone at the numbers provided on their website.
What are some family-friendly activities or points of interest near Suurhusen Church?
Beyond marveling at the leaning tower, families can enjoy the tranquil East Frisian countryside. The area is suitable for gentle cycling or walking, offering a chance to explore the rural landscape. For a deeper dive into local history, the nearby city of Emden provides maritime museums and other attractions that can be engaging for children.
Are there any cafes or restaurants close to Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower?
Yes, after your visit, you can enjoy a break at the nearby Café "Leaning Tower" (Café "Schiefer Turm"), which offers coffee and cake. This provides a pleasant spot to relax and reflect on the architectural wonder you've just seen.
Where can I find accommodation if I want to stay overnight near Suurhusen?
While Suurhusen itself is a small village, the larger city of Emden, just a short drive away, offers a wider range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, and holiday apartments. You can also find various options in other towns across the East Frisian region.
How does the lean of Suurhusen Tower compare to other famous leaning towers, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
The Leaning Tower of Suurhusen has a remarkable lean of 5.19 degrees, which for a period earned it the Guinness World Record for the most unintentionally tilted tower, surpassing the Leaning Tower of Pisa (which has a lean of 3.97 degrees after stabilization). While it has since lost the overall record to intentionally inclined structures, its unintentional tilt remains more pronounced than Pisa's.
Are there hiking or cycling trails around Suurhusen Church and Leaning Tower?
The East Frisian region surrounding Suurhusen is known for its flat, scenic landscape, making it ideal for cycling and leisurely walks. While specific challenging hiking trails might be limited, numerous routes for cyclists and walkers crisscross the area, allowing visitors to explore the charming countryside and combine their visit with outdoor activity.
What is the best time of year to visit Suurhusen Church if I want to avoid crowds?
The peak season for visitors is generally during the warmer months, especially July and August, when additional tours are offered. To avoid larger crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April, May, June, or September, October. Weekdays are also typically less crowded than weekends.
What is the history behind the tower's lean, and how was it stabilized?
The tower's lean began in the 19th century when the surrounding land was drained, causing the groundwater level to drop. This exposed the original oak foundation piles to air, leading to their rotting. For safety, the steeple was closed in 1975. A rescue operation involved installing a new foundation of ferro-concrete posts and reinforcing the pediment with a steel corset, allowing the church to reopen in 1985 and preventing further significant sagging.