Audio Guide of the Metzgerturm

The Metzgerturm is a historic tower located in the center of Ulm and, as part of the old fortifications, it can be seen and accessed from the outside at any time. It does not have specific opening or closing hours like a museum, since it is integrated into the urban landscape. You can freely approach it to admire its unusual architecture and take photographs. For more details about its location, you can consult the map of Ulm.

Good news! Visiting the Metzgerturm is completely free. It is a public structure, and there is no fee to see it from the surrounding area. You can enjoy its distinctive lean and the historical perspective it offers at no cost.

In truth, the Metzgerturm can be appreciated fairly quickly. If you just want to see it, take a few photos, and read any external information plaque, 10 to 15 minutes is more than enough. If you like to pause to observe the details and enjoy the atmosphere, perhaps 20 to 30 minutes, especially if you combine it with a walk through the riverside area and the old town.

The Metzgerturm, or Butchers' Tower, is one of Ulm's old fortification towers, built in the 14th century. What makes it distinctive and famous is its noticeable lean, which earned it the nickname 'the Leaning Tower of Ulm.' This tilt is believed to be due to the tower's foundations having been built on marshy ground, or perhaps to waste left around it by the butchers. It is a fascinating testament to medieval engineering and the city's history.

Personally, I would recommend visiting during daylight hours so you can fully appreciate its lean and architectural details. Sunset can provide beautiful light for photographs. As for the best time of year, spring and summer are ideal because of the pleasant weather for strolling around Ulm, although in winter, with snow, it also has its charm. Avoid tourist crowds if you can, although since it is a street-level structure, there usually are not large crowds that prevent you from seeing it well.

Since the Metzgerturm is an outdoor structure at street level, it is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility or those using wheelchairs. There are no stairs or obstacles preventing you from approaching and admiring it from the surrounding area. The path leading to the tower is paved and flat, making access easy for all visitors.

Ulm is full of wonders! Right next to the Metzgerturm you have the picturesque Fishermen's and Tanners' Quarter (Fishermen's Quarter), with its old houses and canals. And of course, you cannot leave Ulm without visiting Ulm Minster, the church with the tallest church tower in the world. I also recommend a walk along the banks of the Danube and a visit to the Ulm Town Hall with its impressive astronomical clock.

My best advice is that, besides admiring the Metzgerturm, you should take your time to stroll around the surrounding area, especially the Fishermen's Quarter right next to it. The tower makes more sense when seen in the context of the old fortifications and the Blau River. Bring your camera, because it is an excellent spot for photos. And if you are interested in history, look for any nearby information plaque or check Ulm's tourism website (tourismus.ulm.de) to learn more interesting facts about its construction and its lean before your visit.