Description of the attraction
Why were massive, stable towers built in the past? Usually to perform defensive, protective functions or to place bells. The Braniborskaya Tower, which appeared in the town of Zielona Gora in the second half of the 19th century, was never used for these purposes and did not belong to either a church or an army. It was built on the outskirts of the city for entertainment: rich gentlemen could observe the surroundings from the top floor of the tower. From here there was a magnificent view of the picturesque hills, where the best vineyards of the region were located.
The tower-shaped building was erected in 1859 at the expense of one of the residents of Zelena Gora. He set up a restaurant on the ground floors of the tower, where young wine and German cuisine was always served. Since the locals enjoyed spending time in this establishment, its owner flourished.
The name of the tower comes from the word Branebork, as the locals called in the Lusatian language the city of Barndenburg, which is located on the other side of the Odra River.
The tower restaurant was open until the end of World War II. In 1945, Zielona Gora was incorporated into Poland, so the owner of the restaurant, like many of his compatriots, left the city and left the restaurant unattended. The building was gradually dilapidated. Over time, a new residential area appeared around it, which was named Braniborsky. A new generation of residents of Zielona Gora has grown up, which associated this name with high-rise buildings, and not with an abandoned tower.
Finally, in the 80s of the XX century, funds were allocated to restore the tower. At the moment it belongs to the Johannes Kepler Institute of Astronomy and is an observatory.
