The origin of the name of this four-storey edifice, the Malteserturm (Maltese Tower), is not documented, nor is there any record of a link with the so-called Order of the Knights of Malta. Its previous name, however, is rather more revealing – Pulverturm (Gunpowder Tower), which derives from its earlier function as a gunpowder magazine. The tower also once formed the southwesterly corner pillar of the city walls, which were erected during the first half of the 13th century. To this day, the Malteserturm marks the transition from the Old Town to the more recent settlement outside the former city walls.