Tour Bismarck, a 1902 monument on Mont Saint-Quentin
On Mont Saint-Quentin, overlooking Metz and the Moselle valley, this tower was erected in 1902 in memory of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. It is the only Bismarck tower still standing in France. Today it is covered in graffiti and awaiting restoration.
History
Funded by public subscription, this Jaumont stone tower was meant to be visible from the Esplanade in Metz. A spiral staircase leads to a small terrace, and a fire used to be lit at the top. In 1918, the medallion of Bismarck was riddled with bullets. The tower was then left abandoned.
A witness to the annexation, to be read as such
The tower dates from the time when Metz belonged to the German Empire. Foundation stone on 1 April 1901, inauguration on 1 April 1902, Bismarck's birthday: the timing was no accident. The structure belongs to the network of towers then raised in the chancellor's honour and follows a model by Wilhelm Kreis named "Twilight of the Gods". The Metz tourist office notes that it symbolised German control over the territory. Its interest today is that of a historical document on the period: it helps explain how a power leaves its mark on a conquered landscape, without calling for any tribute.
What you actually see on the hillside
On the south-eastern slope of the hill, not at the summit, the tower reaches 13.5 metres. Its four pillars of Jaumont limestone rest on a stepped base in dense woodland. The sandstone relief bearing Bismarck's likeness still shows its bullet marks, and graffiti covers the pillars. Another tower of this type was built in France, at Morhange, but it no longer exists, which accounts for this one's rarity. We found no record of a completed restoration: view it as a damaged structure, from the ground, without trying to climb it.
Walking to the tower across a protected site
The tower stands within the protected site of Mont Saint-Quentin, listed since 1994 and managed by the Eurométropole de Metz. Walks published by Visorando pass by, notably from Scy-Chazelles, on forest paths that can be hard to see. We found no official waymarking leading to the monument, so bring a GPS track and sturdy shoes. The Eurométropole sets event organisers rules that are useful to everyone: stay on the paths, keep dogs on a lead, never cross a barrier or safety tape, and keep away from the old military works, which carry a risk of falls and collapse.
Practical information
Address: Rue du Fort, mont Saint-Quentin, Le Ban-Saint-Martin
Frequently asked questions
Where is it?
On Mont Saint-Quentin, in the municipality of Le Ban-Saint-Martin, near Metz. Access is via Rue du Fort, known as the tourist road.
Can you climb the Bismarck Tower?
It is best to stay outside: the structure is damaged and we found no organised visits. According to English Wikipedia, it has been officially closed since 2001, with no recent official confirmation. Respect any signs on site.
Where should you sleep for a walk on Mont Saint-Quentin?
Base yourself in the city, as the hill lies outside Metz: the centre around the cathedral to do everything on foot, or Outre-Seille for a good compromise. Staylaro's guide « Se loger à Metz » helps you compare and search for accommodation.
Should you come on foot or by car?
Count mainly on walking, over uneven ground. Rue du Fort serves the area, but we could not confirm any parking at the foot of the tower. For current conditions, ask the Ban-Saint-Martin town hall or the Eurométropole.
