As you approach the end of the black, green, and blue hiking trails on the Piast Hills, the Wilkanowska Tower, known as the Bismarck Tower, comes into view in Zielona Góra on Kosowa Mountain (also called Wilkanowska Mountain).
This spot marks the culmination of the most important hiking trails in the forests of the Zielona Góra Ridge, offering breathtaking views of the southern part of the Lubusz Voivodeship. On a clear day, you can even see wind turbines on the German side of the border.
The tower on Kosowa Mountain is one of many such towers built in the former German Empire in honor of Chancellor Bismarck, in gratitude for his efforts in unifying Germany and forming the German Empire, which was achieved in 1871.
The Bismarck Tower on Wilkanowska Mountain in Zielona Góra was erected between 1869 and 1902, standing 20 meters tall. It was constructed using bricks fired in a nearby brickyard that operated on Ceglana Street in Zielona Góra until the end of the 20th century.
Initially, the tower served as a fire tower, where Bengal lights were lit in its fire basin. The copper fire basin, with a diameter of 60 cm, was relatively small compared to other such devices mounted on towers.
Currently, the tower is owned by the State Forests and functions as a fire observation post, usually staffed by personnel. Unfortunately, the tower is not open for tours and is not accessible to tourists.
Next to the tower, there is a covered shelter with a bench where you can rest, take refuge from the rain, or simply have a family picnic—all the benefits of this amazing place can be seen in the photos we have taken.
If you fancy continuing your hike or bike ride, all the major hiking and biking trails lead out from Wilkanowska Mountain towards Zielona Góra/amphitheater, the bathing area in Ochla, or in the direction of Świdnica and Wilkanów.