Witch Tower, Hofheim am Taunus, Hesse, Germany

In Today's Daily Jigsaw Puzzle, we visit the Witch Tower (Hexenturm) at the Untertor Gate in Hofheim am Taunus, Hesse, Germany. The Witch Tower is a well-preserved relic of the town's medieval past.

Built in the 15th century, this sturdy, round tower was designed to protect Hofheim from firearms—its three-meter-thick walls a testament to its defensive purpose. Originally known as Fratzenstein ("Grotesque Tower") after a small sandstone figure believed to ward off evil, the tower later became tied to a darker history. During the witch trials of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, at least 15 people were accused of witchcraft, and some were executed—a grim chapter in Hofheim’s past.

Despite its eerie reputation, the tower itself is a quite something. Its eight-meter-high interior chamber, half of it below ground, was once a munitions storehouse, only accessible from above. A ground-level entrance was added in the 20th century, making it easier to explore. Today, it stands as a well-preserved reminder of the town’s history.

Historically, Hofheim's economy was rooted in agriculture and local craftsmanship. The town's fertile surroundings supported farming, while trades such as tanning thrived, particularly in the Lorsbach valley, where a notable leather industry developed. 

In contemporary times, Hofheim has transitioned into a residential community within the Frankfurt/Rhine-Main metropolitan region. Its proximity to major cities like Frankfurt and Wiesbaden has made it an attractive location for commuters. While local industries persist, the town's economy now leans more towards services and small-scale manufacturing ♥