JenTower
Thüringen
JenTower, located in Jena, Thüringen, stands as the tallest office building in the German state of Thuringia at 144.5 meters (159.6 meters including its antenna). Constructed between 1970 and 1972, it was designed by architect Hermann Henselmann and originally intended as a research center symbolizing a telescope. The cylindrical high-rise features 31 floors, including two underground levels, and a distinctive curtain glass facade with 1,456 windows. Over the decades, the tower has undergone significant renovations including a major facade update and height extension completed in 2001. It houses offices, a shopping center, a restaurant, and a public observation deck on the upper floors, offering visitors sweeping views over Jena. The building is a prominent city landmark, historically linked to the Carl Zeiss company and later used by the Friedrich Schiller University. Its modern usage includes IT companies and retail spaces, reflecting the city's dynamic economic profile. The tower’s unique architectural design and its role as a symbol of socialist-era urban development make it a must-see attraction in eastern Germany.
Plan your trip to Germany with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit JenTower during daylight hours for the best panoramic views from the public observation deck, open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for groups, to benefit from discounted rates. The attached shopping center and restaurants provide convenient amenities for visitors. Early autumn or late spring offer pleasant weather and less crowded conditions. Photography enthusiasts should bring wide-angle lenses to capture the cityscape from the tower’s vantage point.
Interesting facts
- •JenTower is the tallest building in eastern Germany by official height, including its antenna reaching 159.6 meters.
- •The tower's design was inspired to symbolize a telescope, reflecting Jena's scientific legacy with Carl Zeiss.
- •It was originally planned to have 35 floors but was built with 31 due to budget cuts.
- •The 27th floor was converted into a hotel featuring some of the highest hotel rooms in Germany within a building.
- •The tower has 1,456 windows across its 29 above-ground floors.
- •The observation deck on the 29th floor is open daily to the public, providing panoramic views of Jena and surroundings.
History
The JenTower's construction began in 1970 as part of East Germany's initiative to modernize city skylines with prominent 'socialist' landmarks.
Designed by Hermann Henselmann, the original plan envisioned a taller and wider tower, but economic constraints led to a reduced scale.
Completed and inaugurated in 1972, it initially served as a research center for the Carl Zeiss combine.
Post-reunification, the building was transferred from university use to private ownership and underwent major renovations between 1999 and 2001, including a height increase and facade modernization.
Renamed from Intershop Tower to JenTower in 2004, it remains a symbol of Jena's architectural and industrial heritage.
Place Guide
Observation Deck
Located on the 29th floor, the observation deck offers expansive panoramic views of Jena and the surrounding Thuringian landscape. It is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, allowing visitors to appreciate the city skyline and natural scenery.
Restaurant on 28th Floor
A restaurant located just below the observation deck provides dining with scenic views. It is open daily and offers a variety of local and international dishes, making it a perfect spot for visitors to relax after exploring the tower.
Shopping Center 'Neue Mitte'
Adjacent to the tower's base, the 'Neue Mitte' shopping center houses around 6,000 square meters of retail space with various shops and services, open Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Contact
Phone: 03641 224249
