Water tower in Ełk

The water tower in Ełk, built in 1895, is one of the best-preserved structures of its kind in Masuria and has been listed in the register of historical monuments. It is located at the intersection of 11 Listopada and Kajki streets. The tower served to supply water until the 1970s, when a modern water supply system was introduced in Ełk. Water was drawn from six deep wells located 4 km from the city, stored in a reservoir, and then pumped into the tower, enabling distribution to 80% of Ełk's population. Architecturally, the tower has five floors, with the first and second levels featuring rustication, and is topped with a domed roof adorned with dormer windows. The exterior facade is distinguished by an arched cornice, and the entrance is set within a massive portal. Since 1994, the tower has housed the German Minority Association "Mazury" and the Museum of a Drop of Water, which displays historical tools, vessels, household equipment, and early 20th-century photographs of Ełk. As one of the tallest buildings in the city, the tower also serves as a viewpoint. The museum is open on selected days of the week and daily during the tourist season, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and locals, while also contributing to the preservation of local culture and history. An interesting feature is the tower’s illumination, installed in the 21st century, which enhances its charm after dark.