The water tower in Szamotuły and the Szamotuły water supply system

The water tower in Szamotuły, located at 14 Wojska Polskiego Street, is a unique architectural monument that reflects the influence of Prussian utilitarian architecture from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Designed by the Heinrich Scheven company from Düsseldorf, the tower features a cylindrical structure and combines elements of Baroque and Romanesque styles. Its base, made of brick and stone in the shape of an octagon, is adorned with a Neo-Baroque portal and plant ornaments. The tower also has Neo-Gothic windows and a steel water tank with a capacity of 150 m³, situated at a height of 36 meters, which ensures water pressure in the network. The history of Szamotuły's water supply dates back to before its construction, when residents relied on public wells. Investments in water infrastructure began after 1870, when Szamotuły came under German possession, allowing for the development of the water supply and sewage systems. The construction of the Szamotuły water supply system began in 1906, and its launch aimed to improve water accessibility for residents. At that time, Szamotuły became a model for water supply investments, serving approximately 6,000 residents. After World War II, rapid demographic growth necessitated further investments and modernization of the water treatment station, as well as the construction of new wells. In the 1980s, it became necessary to close the old sewage treatment plant and build a new one to meet growing demands. Today, the Szamotuły municipality is 100% supplied with running water and 75% connected to the sewage system, with the water supply network exceeding 72 km in length. Interestingly, the water tower, despite changes, has retained its historical features to this day and remains an important cultural and architectural element in the landscape of Szamotuły.