The tower was constructed in 1927 as a radio direction-finding station (Peilstation) for the German Navy.
It was designed as a square brick structure, distinct from the cylindrical shapes of the adjacent lighthouses.
During the Cold War, the area around the tower was heavily militarized and strictly controlled by the East German Border Troops.
The tower is one of several maritime landmarks on the peninsula, including a smaller, older lighthouse and a larger, newer lighthouse.
It is located near the ancient Slavic fortress ramparts of Jaromarsburg, destroyed in the 12th century.
The masonry reflects the industrial red-brick architectural style common to northern German coastal infrastructure of the early 20th century.
The tower serves as a vantage point for spotting migratory birds crossing the Baltic corridor.
The Peilturm (Bearing Tower) at Kap Arkona is a 21-meter-high historic brick tower built in 1927 for maritime navigation. It served as a radio beacon and direction-finding station for ships entering the Baltic Sea near the Rügen coast. The tower is situated on the northernmost tip of the island of Rügen within the Kap Arkona tourist complex. Visitors can access an observation deck that provides panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding chalk cliffs. The structure is one of three prominent towers at the site, positioned between the two existing lighthouses. It currently functions as a museum and exhibition space documenting the history of the site and local marine navigation.
The top observation gallery provides a 360-degree view that frames the neighboring lighthouses against the Baltic sea.
Bring binoculars to scan the horizon for passing ships and local birdlife.
Combine your visit with the nearby Jaromarsburg archaeological site to see the remains of the old Slavic temple ramparts.
Dress in wind-resistant layers, as the exposed coastal location is subject to constant, cooling sea breezes regardless of the season.
Do not attempt to walk down the steep, unstable chalk cliffs; stick to marked paths to prevent erosion damage and personal injury.
May be closed during extreme weather conditions such as high winds or storms.
Avoid leaning over balcony railings and respect restricted areas of the nearby military ruins.
