The Hausmann Tower received its present appearance in the 16th century during the construction of the Saalbau with the Wendelstein. In earlier times, it housed the chamber of the tower watchman, who observed the town and surrounding area from above. His duties included ringing the hourly bells, warning of dangers such as fires, and announcing enemy approaches.
A remarkable historical figure who lived in the Hausmannsturm until 1515 was Claus Narr. He was not just a court jester but a so-called "natural fool"—a person with physical and mental disabilities who was believed to possess extraordinary abilities. The courtly society valued him highly and even attributed to him the power of foreseeing historical events.
