How a 19th-Century Tower Became a Modern Taunus Landmark
The Wilhelm von Opel Tower has long been a landmark in the Taunus region, blending history, civic effort, and modern use. Its origins trace back to 1879, when a wooden observation tower first offered visitors sweeping views of Wiesbaden. Over the decades, fires, donations, and public campaigns have shaped its story—culminating in today’s restored tower and bustling inn.
The tale began in 1879, when the Taunus Club built a wooden observation tower on Kellerskopf Mountain. For a decade, it provided panoramic vistas until a fire destroyed it in 1892. Undeterred, the club commissioned a stone bergfried in 1899, designed by architect Karl Mohr to resist wind and weather.
In 1928, disaster struck again when a blaze wiped out all outbuildings. Wilhelm von Opel stepped in, donating 5,000 Reichsmarks to fund a modern mountain inn. Five years later, in 1933, his generosity enabled the reconstruction of the restaurant, and the tower was renamed in his honour. A plaque was added to mark his contribution.
By the late 20th century, the tower had fallen into disrepair. Local citizens rallied, raising around 120,000 Deutschmarks to restore it, and the structure reopened in 1989. The 1990s brought a new challenge: installing mobile phone antennas without spoiling the historic site. A compromise was reached—a pavilion-like design concealed the modern tech.
The revival continued in 2008 with the reopening of the Kellerskopf Mountain Inn. Today, it draws hikers, families, and wedding parties, the latter now able to marry at the Wilhelm von Opel Tower’s registry office branch.
The Wilhelm von Opel Tower stands as a testament to community spirit and adaptability. From its 19th-century origins to modern-day weddings, it remains a symbol of how tradition and progress can coexist. The site’s ongoing popularity reflects its enduring appeal to visitors and locals alike.
