Prenzlau observatory
Image: Wikimedia Commons
High in the Steintorturm, a medieval gate tower in Prenzlau, Brandenburg, a local astronomy group runs one of Germany's more unusual public observatories.
About Prenzlau Observatory
The observatory occupies the Steintorturm (Schwedter Gate Tower) on Schwedter Straße, a surviving piece of Prenzlau's medieval town fortifications - most of the rest of the original gate complex was demolished in the late 19th century. Today the tower serves as a public observatory, run by a local astronomy group for stargazing and outreach.
History
The tower itself is first documented in 1306, making it one of the oldest structures still standing in Prenzlau, long before it found its current use for astronomy.
Location & getting there
Prenzlau is a town in Brandenburg, in northeastern Germany, and the observatory sits in the historic town centre at Schwedter Straße 54a.
Visiting Prenzlau Observatory
As a public observatory, it's generally open for organised viewing sessions; check with the local astronomy group for current opening times before visiting.
See your named star from here
Climbing a 700-year-old tower to look at the stars is already a memorable evening - add a star named through Star Register to the itinerary and bring its coordinates along. Name a star or browse the catalogue before your visit.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
