Malakoff Tower

A gate tower of the Prussian riverbank fortifications at the Rheinauhafen – with a historic swing bridge right by the Chocolate Museum.

Rheinauhafen History Photo spot

The Malakoff Tower on the Holzmarkt is a relic of the Prussian riverbank fortifications (1848–1858). The striking gate tower stands at the entrance to the Rheinauhafen, right next to the Chocolate Museum.

Source: Wikipedia · retrieved 2026-06-24

At a glance

Built: 1852–1855
Location: Rheinauhafen, on the Holzmarkt
Notable: a historic iron swing bridge
Function: once a gate tower and gun emplacement

A harbour gate with a swing bridge

As part of the expansion of the riverside fortifications, the Malakoff Tower was built at the northern tip of the safety harbour. Its attached iron swing bridge still opens access to the Rheinauhafen today and belongs to the charming historic ensemble around the Chocolate Museum – a popular photo spot by the water.