Fernsehturm Stuttgart
The Fernsehturm Stuttgart (TV Tower Stuttgart) is the world's first TV tower built from concrete (and prototype for many towers of that kind all over the world). It is located on the so-called "Hohen Bopser" hill in the Stuttgart city district of Degerloch. After a construction period of 20 months it was taken into service on February 5, 1956, by Südwestrundfunk – SWR). The SWR broadcasts several radio programs (FM band) as well as the Germany's ARD TV programme (one of the leading national TV networks). Although the tower was disputed at the beginning, it became soon after completion the well-known landmark of Stuttgart and the tourist attraction. From the two observation decks one has a beautiful view on Stuttgart, from the forests vineyards in and around Stuttgart to the Swabian Jura and the Black Forest. On many days, even the Swiss Alps are observable.
- Architect: Professor Dr. Ing. Fritz Leonhardt
- Geographical Coordinates: 48° 45'24" N, 9° 11' 29" E
- Altitude: Foot of the tower 483 m ue.d.M.
- Overall height up to the antenna point: 216.8 meters
- Height of the upper prospect platform: 153.5 meters
- Height of the lower prospect platform: 150 meters
- Diameter of the foundation: 27 meters
- Total weight of the tower: approximately 3000 tons
- Weight of the foundation: approximately 1500 tons
- Driving speed of the elevators: 4 m per second
- Panorama Café on a platform of the tower basket
- Maximum diameter of the tower basket: 15 meters
The tower can be reached by the Stuttgart public transport system (see Stuttgart external links) and is open for visitors from 9 o'clock until 23 o'clock.
History
- 10.1.1954: Start of construction
- 5.2.1956: Inauguration
- October 1965 until December 1965: Extension of antenna, hence today the tower is 216.8 meters tall.
