Püttlingen boasts a tower where the local witches were held prisoner, ruins of an imposing castle and one the oldest church of the Saarland.
You can find one of the most fascinating relics of the darker ages in the center of town. There stands the Hexenturm or Witches Tower.
At the end of the 16th century 14 women from Püttlingen were kept prisoner underneath the tower on charges of witchcraft. After a show process they were burned at the stake. Out of reverence for the victims the citizens of the town decided never to tear down the tower.
If you want to get an idea of the glorious past of Püttlingen you should visit the ruins of the Bucherbach castle. The construction of the castle was probably started in the 11th century, but it seems that every time a new owner took residence he added a new annex, wall or tower.
December would be a great time to visit: the traditional Christmas Market is held on the castle ground. Feast on Glühwein and regional food while strolling along the stalls selling candles, Christmas decorations and many other hand-made products.
The Martinskirche, The Church of St. Martin, is the oldest church in Saarland. It is said that it was build in the 8th century, but to be fair there’s not much left from the original building. The church as we see it today is from the beginning of the 13th century and is built in late-gothic style. A couple of years ago foundations of a late Roman Oratorium were found that proved that there has been an older church on the same grounds.
For something completely different head to the Clocks Museum or Uhrenmuseum. A big collection of amazing clocks and watches are on display and in the museum workshop you can see how clocks were made and repaired in the past — traditional way. Even the tools the watchmakers use are original.
