The shell-shaped town tower is part of the first expansion of the town and was added to the existing wall in order to better protect the vulnerable western side of the town against the steeply rising Schütteberg. The shape of the humpback ashlars indicates that it was built in the middle of the 14th century. The defence of the city wall was organised and commanded from this defence tower. As early as the 18th century, its use as a prison gave the thieves' or rogues' tower its name. In 1822, the new Württemberg rulers set up four permanent, heated criminal prisons and a prison warden's flat in the tower. The half-timbered roof truss with its hipped roof was demolished and replaced by a tent roof. The tower room now houses a hiking centre run by the Swabian Alb Association.
Right next to the Schurkenturm tower is the castle garden with a view of the Neckar valley.
TIP: You can book a guided tour of the town, which includes a visit to the Schurkenturm, at the Horb town information centre.
