The tower stands on the north bank of the Pegnitz and is structurally connected to the neighboring Weinstadel . It is connected to the smaller executioner's tower on the flea market island in the Pegnitz by a two-arched sandstone bridge, which has a half-timbered structure and gabled roof .The square tower was built in 1320-25. The lower floors were built of hump ashlars , the upper two of brick. The tower is provided with notches and windows and has a hipped roof .It originally protected the outflow of the Pegnitz, lost its function when the last city fortifications were erected in 1400 and was then used as a prison.In a plan from 1940 for the redevelopment of the north bank of the Pegnitz, the demolition of the building was planned . The water tower is used today - together with the Weinstadel - as a student residence .