Gillert Tower
The tower, a steel structure, was built in 1892 and, according to current knowledge, inaugurated on August 7, 1892. Its observation deck is located 15 meters above ground level.
However, the Gillerberg Tower—which stands on the 653-meter-high Giller in Lützel, directly along the well-known Rothaarsteig and Siegerland-Höhenring hiking trails—doesn’t really show its age. The reason for this is an extensive renovation completed in mid-August 2014. The entire steel structure had to be cleaned of rust that had accumulated over time. In addition, structural modifications were made to improve safety. Both observation decks are now equipped with a new protective railing that complies with current regulations. The knee-high side guard panels on the spiral staircase were also replaced. Finally, the panoramic panel mounted on the upper observation deck was refurbished so that all the information displayed there is once again clearly legible. A subsequent coat of primer and two coats of topcoat have since restored the tower to its former glory.
Since the observation tower has been a listed historic monument since 1992, all of these measures had to be coordinated with the historic preservation authority.
The total cost of 58,000 euros could only be covered by the Hilchenbach branch of the SGV—which owns the observation tower—with the help of numerous donations and grants.
A climb up the Gillerturm is especially worthwhile when the visibility is good, as the view is indescribably beautiful.
Hikers on the Rothaarsteig trail will find the tower right along the trail; a picnic area rounds out the visit to the Gillerturm.