The Firewatch tower, Sopron

"Not all those who wander are lost."- J.R.R. Tolkien

The symbol of the city of Sopron is the Firewatch Tower.  Built on the remains of a Roman town wall, it has been the north tower of the city since the 13th century.  

The balcony in the middle is the station where the guards kept watch for fires and foreign invaders. 

The Firewatch tower is the symbol of faithfulness.  On December 14th, 1921, 8 neighbouring villages as well as Sopron voted to remain part of Hungary.  The alternative was to be part of Austria.

The climb to the top, 200 spiral stairs.

The reward for such a feat was a cappuccino in the cafe at the bottom.

The entrance is actually built under the tower.

Purchase a ticket and onward we went.

Always tiny, narrow passages in ancient buildings.  Was everyone petite back then?

We are off.......

A gift from God, (the sun beam around my head) on the spiral stairwell.

Air holes, windows.....I had to take a peek and a brief rest.

The view from that wee window opening.

The back of the tower facing outside of the Old city (the other side of the walled area).  Looking down, there is a interlocking bricked court yard which I love.

Did I mention how windy it was up there?  That is my rain coat flopping in the wind.  Looks like I am ready to take flight.

A birds eye view of the Main Square featuring the "Goat's Church."

This is an ancient measuring disc.  The dot is the Firewatch Tower and the lines mark the names of surrounding villages and the distance to them.    

Well worth the trip up for the panoramic views of the city from the top.  Even if you are fearful of heights, the climb feels safe and the balcony keeps you secure at the top.