Water Tower in Malbork

Even at the design stage, Malbork's 1905 water tower was meant to echo the medieval architecture of the Teutonic Knights' town. This Gothic Revival brick tower on Słowiański Square is about 30 m tall. Since its restoration it has been a free viewpoint and gallery, and its water tank still works. From the top you can see the town, the Nogat river and the flat Żuławy delta plain.

History of the tower

The tower was built together with the town's waterworks. The date 1905 is cut into the weathervane at the top of the roof. The cylindrical brick shaft stands on a tall, octagonal stone base and is divided by narrow pilasters. It is crowned by a tall eight-sided roof. Inside there are three open-plan storeys, a circular staircase and a preserved, working water tank. The tower also has a clock with an interesting mechanism.

In 2018–2019 the tower was renovated as part of "Malbork na +", an EU-funded programme to revitalise the town centre. It officially reopened on 19 November 2019. It is run by the Malbork Centre for Culture and Education. The tower houses the NOVA Gallery, the revitalisation office, a viewing point and a youth club run by the local Scouts.

What to see

• The view from the top over Malbork, the Nogat and Żuławy. You can climb the original iron stairs or take the lift.
• The NOVA Gallery in the former tank (level +4), a hall used for exhibitions by local artists, openings, workshops and meetings.
• Gothic Revival details up close: the stone base, pilasters and eight-sided roof with its weathervane.

Interesting facts

Malbork has two water towers, so they are easy to mix up. The other, older one stands on Dworcowa Street, between the road and the railway near Malbork Główny station. It was built in 1901. It is rendered, octagonal and has no particular architectural style. Inside, a tank with a rounded base, a metal coal stove and a steel spiral staircase survive. The tower described here is the Gothic Revival one on Słowiański Square.

Tripto tip

According to the town's Visit Malbork website (as of October 2026), entry is free and the tower is open:

• Monday: 12:00–16:00,
• Tuesday–Thursday: 8:00–16:00,
• Friday: 12:00–18:00,
• Saturday: 11:00–14:00,
• Sunday: closed.

Organised groups can book on +48 513 099 481. Allow 30–45 minutes. The tower stands on Słowiański Square next to the Town Hall and County Office, a few minutes' walk from the Teutonic castle. There is a car park in the paid parking zone in front of the County Office, where charges apply Monday to Friday, 8:00–17:00. It is worth phoning to check opening times on public holidays and long weekends.