Tallest church tower risks destruction — by urine
German city grapples with the acid impact of people relieving themselves at base of 162-meter tower
The 162-meter tall church tower of Germany’s Ulm Minster is at risk of toppling over — because its base is being eroded by human urine.
The Lutheran church, which boasts the largest church tower in the world, has been standing since the late 14th century.
Of late, however, it has become a beacon of salvation for those looking to relieve themselves, mainly “late night revelers,” CNN reported on Wednesday.
This issue has become so problematic that the stone tower at the church’s base could be destroyed by the salt and acid in human urine.
In an attempt at deterrence, German police now issue a €100 fine to anyone caught urinating at its base.
But officials in the local municipality are looking for better solutions to the problem, including exploring the possibility of providing public toilets close by, particularly during public events in the local square.