Luftwaffe Towers in Vienna

Luftwaffe Towers in Vienna​

In September 2017 I’ve journeyed to Vienna, Austria and found all six ex Luftwaffe Towers, known as Flak towers, Ati Aircraft Towers or Flakturm. These concrete giants survived Second World War and still create great impression at close range. Short War and after War history of the Towers with photos and commentaries.


Flacturm Wien: Vienna Anti Aircraft Flak Towers (2017)

 

Nice photos and summary. I have visited the Vienna flak towers many times over the years.

 

They are indeed impressive and have an ominous presence about them but as buildings, other structures, have grown up they are less obvious. One can walk for a good period without seeing them, other than the one in the open park. But when one turns a counter and one looms large they quickly remind you of the war. I read, sometimes ago, of studies conducted to remove some of them but the number of explosives needed with damage existing buildings with the possible the single tower in the park or its fire control cousin. They appear to be pretty much ignored by the population but then there is no way to tell. . As years pass they look increasingly like old donjons or fortresses that are seen in many European cities.

 

I believe such historical sites should be saved, not destroyed, even if to be abandoned. They are now a part of Vienna, a part of History.

 

Maksym, I totally agree, they are part of Vienna and thought symbols so are many castles and fortresses, just a different time period. I also agree ruins can be most beautiful.

Gaines

 

Well said Gaines. Ruins can most certainly be beautiful, especially ones such as these which are rich in historical value. I have found, especially in the Northeast, constant battles keeping sites alive and renovated. The "go go" modern lifestyle has no interest in keeping the past alive. They would rather build a Dunkin Donuts in it's place.