Festung Königstein, Hungerturm

The Festung Königstein or Königstein Fortress is one of the largest hilltop fortresses in Europe, located about 13km southwest of Dresden in Saxony, Germany. The fortress was used to protect Saxony from the Bohemian forces in the Middle Ages, before being incorporated into the Prussian defence network in the late 18th century. Visitors can explore the fortifications and barracks, dungeons, and the 28-meter-high octagonal Hungerturm or 'Hunger Tower', built between 1848 and 1851. There is also a chapel, museum, and a cafe located within the fortress walls. Hiking trails around the fortress provide spectacular views of the Elbe valley. Because of its impressive size and strong location, Festung Königstein has been used as a setting for several films, including the Pink Panther franchise.