The Water Tower

The Water Tower, in Lucerne

The Water Tower is the inseparable companion of the Chapel Bridge, in Lucerne. The Lucerne audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this octagonal tower, one of the most recognisable elements of the silhouette of the city.

An octagonal tower in the river

The Water Tower, the Wasserturm, is an octagonal stone tower standing in the Reuss river, attached to the Chapel Bridge. Its characteristic is its design: an octagonal-plan base that rises in height. A former element of the fortifications of the city, it served over the centuries as a watchtower, a prison, an archive room and a treasure chamber. With the bridge, it forms the emblematic image of Lucerne, known worldwide.

What to see

You admire the octagonal stone tower standing in the Reuss, attached to the Chapel Bridge, a former element of the fortifications. The Water Tower forms with the bridge the emblematic image of Lucerne. It is a must-see stop, ideal for photographing the city.

Practical information

The Water Tower lies in the Reuss river, attached to the Chapel Bridge, in the heart of the old town of Lucerne, reachable on foot. You mainly admire it from the outside and the bridge; access inside depends on its current uses and may be limited. You discover it during a walk along the river.

What was the Water Tower of Lucerne for?

A former element of the fortifications, it served as a watchtower, a prison, an archive room and a treasure chamber; it is attached to the Chapel Bridge.

Where is the Water Tower?

In the Reuss river, attached to the Chapel Bridge, in the heart of the old town of Lucerne.