Bautzen 3

The Old Waterworks sit at the edge of the Spree, high on the plateau, along the wall that protected the old city of Bautzen. We arrived

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

and climbed our way up the winding stairs.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

Along the way we saw some of the weapons that were used to guard the city.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

But the tower was not so much about protecting the city from enemies, but protecting the city from thirst and disease.
The tower dates back to 1558. Back then they had changed the course of the river Spree so that it moved past the water works. There was a mill wheel that turned as the water passed, and pumped water up to the city.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

The city did not need a large standing reservoir, but relied on a constant flow of water from the water works. The water was pumped through pipes carved from trees.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

When we got to the top we had a fantastic view of the valley, and the water below.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

Here we are on the top.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

As we went down to the bottom, we saw the current situation.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

The water works still spin a machine, but now a turbine.

From Bautzen The Old Waterworks 1558

I am not sure what the turbine does, but it is wild to think the river has been spinning something here for 400 years.

We miss you America. Will spend tomorrow night watching the Inauguration.

As a final note, the snowman has lost his head. Actually his head and torso. I was going to take a picture, but it was too sad.