Germany Zichorienturm (Pieschelche Mühle)

The Zichorienturm, also known as the Pieschelsche Mühle, is the oldest industrial monument in Genthin and a fascinating testament to the early manufacturing history of the Jerichower Land. Originally erected in 1808 by merchant Carl Friedrich von Pieschel as a horse-powered oil and grain mill, the towering red brick structure was converted into a Dutch windmill in 1813. Its primary purpose became roasting and grinding chicory roots to produce "Zichorienkaffee," a highly popular coffee substitute of the era. Following a devastating fire in 1871 that destroyed the windmill sails, the facility was modernized with a steam engine, and the tower was rebuilt with its now-iconic, castle-like crenellated crown (Zinnenkrone). Constructed using stamped bricks from nearby Rathenow, the striking tower survives today as a proud architectural relic of 19th-century industry.

Because the tower is situated on private commercial property, the most effective vantage points are from the adjacent Fabrikstraße or the neighboring Volkspark Genthin. Framing the striking, castle-like silhouette of the tower through the mature trees of the Volkspark creates a beautiful, layered contrast between nature and raw industrial heritage. The deep red tones of the historic Rathenow brickwork look especially rich on overcast days, which provide soft, even lighting, or when bathed in the warm, directional glow of the late afternoon sun. Take time to focus on tighter compositional shots to highlight the unique crenellated crown at the top and the beautifully restored brick entrance portal at the base.

Located in the Altenplathow district of Genthin, the Zichorienturm is easily accessible and makes for an excellent, quick historical detour. While you cannot enter the tower itself—it is securely located on the private grounds of a local company—the exterior is fully visible from public pathways. Strolling through the adjacent Volkspark Genthin offers a relaxing way to view the structure. Historically, a small canal branch connected the factory directly to the nearby Plauer Kanal for the seamless transport of raw materials, adding a rich layer of logistical history to this quiet corner of the city.