Schelmentoren

Description

The Schelmentoren in Heerlen is a medieval tower that has served various purposes throughout its history. Originally built in the 12th century as a fortified residence for the Lords of Are, it became part of the Landsfort Herle defensive system, with walls up to two meters thick and a surrounding moat. In the 18th century, during the era of the Bokkenrijders, the tower functioned as a council chamber, courtroom, prison, and torture chamber. Today, it is managed by a local carnival association and used as a meeting space.