The Jahrtausendturm (Millennium Tower) was built for the Federal Garden Show of 1999 in the Elbauenpark on the Elbe meadows. At 60 meters, it is one of the tallest wooden structures in the world, built from 1,000 oak trunks without metal fastenings in a technique inspired by medieval timber construction.
Inside, the tower is organized as a journey through 6,000 years of human invention and discovery — hands-on stations at each level demonstrate key inventions in a way that's genuinely engaging for adults as well as children. Magdeburg's own Otto von Guericke (inventor of the vacuum pump) features prominently. The view from the top over the Elbe floodplain and the city is the reward at the end.
The surrounding Elbauenpark is a pleasant green space that was laid out for the Garden Show. The park and tower together make a good half-day excursion, particularly with children. Accessible by tram from the city center.