An observation tower is a structure used to view events from a long distance and to create a full 360 degree range of vision to conduct long distance observations. Observation towers are usually at least 20 metres (66 ft) tall and are made from stone, iron, and wood. Many modern towers are also used as TV towers, restaurants, or churches. The towers first appeared in the ancient world, as long ago as the Babylonian Empire.
Observation tower in Auersberg, Saxony, Germany
Haukkavuori's observation tower in Kotka, Kymenlaakso, Finland
Kirkkovuori Nature Observation tower, Karstula, Central Finland.
Swan Bells Observation tower, Perth, Australia.
A watchtower or watch tower is a type of fortification used in many parts of the world. It differs from a regular tower in that its primary use is military and from a turret in that it is usually a freestanding structure. Its main purpose is to provide a high, safe place from which a sentinel or guard may observe the surrounding area. In some cases, non-military towers, such as religious towers, may also be used as watchtowers.
A watchtower on the Great Wall of China
Saint Thomas Tower in Marsaskala, Malta
A reconstruction of a Roman Watchtower in Germany
Għallis Tower, one of the 13 de Redin towers in Malta