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Thuringian Warte Observation Tower

Thuringian Warte Observation Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

Thuringian Warte Observation Tower

Recommended by 337 hikers out of 340

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Naturpark Frankenwald

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Location: Ludwigsstadt, Kronach, Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany

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2. View of Lauenstein Castle – Sky lounger with castle view loop from Springelhof

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3. Lauenstein Castle – Cook's Grave loop from Probstzella

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Tips

Andrea und Huskys 🐺

July 25, 2025

The 26.5-meter-high observation tower on the Ratzenberg (678 meters) is only about 200 meters from the state border between Bavaria and Thuringia. The inner-German border strip, now protected as the "Green Belt," is still clearly visible here. The 34-ton square steel structure was intended to stimulate tourism. The tower was inaugurated on June 17, 1963, the Day of German Unity, which commemorated the popular uprising in the GDR on June 17, 1953. The keynote speaker was Rainer Barzel (CDU), then Federal Minister for All-German Affairs. The Thuringian Lookout became a magnet for visitors who wanted to see Thuringia, including Federal President Heinrich Lübke in October 1964. The tower, partially renovated in 1993 and 2012, houses a permanent exhibition about the inner-German border.

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Steffen

June 17, 2019

The climb is worthwhile in any case, a lot of information on the former inner German border. Once you have reached the top you can enjoy the beautiful view

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Jag2ooo

April 16, 2015

A little German history and a wonderful view!

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Details

Informations

Elevation 720 m

Weather

Wednesday 10 December

8°C

3°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Location: Ludwigsstadt, Kronach, Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany

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Lauenstein Castle

Thuringian Warte Observation Tower

1. View of Lauenstein Castle – Sky lounger with castle view loop from Lauenstein

2. View of Lauenstein Castle – Sky lounger with castle view loop from Springelhof

3. Lauenstein Castle – Cook's Grave loop from Probstzella

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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