Viking Cruises, Photo of the Day #22
As we walked through Breisach Germany, where Viking River Cruises stopped, we went on a self guided tour and visited the St Stephens Cathedral on the hill. On our return walk we came across this piece of history that stood out, literally from the side of the building. We were told the individual who resided in the upstairs wanted to protect either his daughter or wife from intruders. It was considered a form of a chastity belt. I know I definitely wouldn’t climb the gutter or the pole before, if I encountered this contraption!
Antiquated Chastity Belt Contraption on an Exterior Drain Pipe
I am always amazed with history and what one runs across on the various tours that Viking offers. One never knows what will materialize or show itself, when traversing the streets in Europe. This, by far though, has to be one of the most shrewd applications I have ever seen while touring European cities. I am glad it caught my eye.
***Portions of our cruise were sponsored by Viking River Cruises. All opinions, as always, are those of my own.
Posted By atMay 14, 2018
Architecture
I’m with you on that, I wouldn’t climb it either with something like that sticking out! Looks like it will cut right through you… and if it doesn’t whatever is waiting on the other sure will lol.
Dana,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Much appreciated!
Mike
Well thought during those times to think of a way for intruders. I myself won’t dare to climb that pole.
Carrie,
I’m not sure anybody would climb the pole!
Mike
Small details like this give us a glimpse of how was life so many hundreds of years ago, it gives an odd feeling to imagine those old lifestyles.
Aleja,
Yes I agree. That’s why I publish the “Photo of the Day” series.
Mike
The chastity belt looks so old I wonder how many years that belt would have been on that exterior drain pipe.Climbing that pole will be a No for me though.
Goddy ‘
I agree with both of your thoughts!
Mike
I love hearing stories behind things and places. I really love how you share many interesting things with us.
Sonia,
I love hearing beautiful comments like yours. Thanks.
Well, this is certainly an interesting story, not something one can hear or see everyday. To think people would go all that trouble to defend themselves… we cannot help but think of what their lives should be like… Very nice photo, btw!
Julie,
I agree and found it very unique also!
Mike
I understand the goal of a chastity belt but I am having a hard time imagining anyone wearing it seriously???It looks like a chore to put on to be honest.
Scott,
It wasn’t intended to be worn. It was for stopping any suitors who tried to come to the room. I certainly wouldn’t climb the pole!
Mike
This really worth the photo of the day,i find photos or images with history dated back fascinating.The story behind the chastity belt though.People way of life is always historic.
Berry,
Thanks for the compliment. I love history and when I stumble upon a unique story like this I have to share it.
Mike
What was the chastity belt supposed to do? Protect the virginity of his daughter? One cannot be amazed at what can be discovered from different places.
Odim,
Or the wife. I’m not entirely sure which. It was a broad general explanation. Thanks.
Mike
It’s nice to hear these kinds of stories every now and then! Good thing I saw this blog now! Thanks for the awesome post!
Rae,
You are most welcome!
Mike
I love historical artifacts like these, it’s certainly very interesting to consider the way that people from back then handled issues like chastity, marriage, and relationships.
Jen,
I agree. I love historical items, architecture, etc, especially when they are this unique!
Mike
This is a great photo. It tells so much story. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Helena,
You are most welcome!
Mike
Chastity belt must be vicious in every way, so as to discourage infidelity. so what i see in this image is something similar hehe. However i take it as the man of the house does not trust his woman.
Michael,
I think if it was today I would agree, but this was placed up in a different time, with different standards, etc.
Mike
i find that kind of cool. it could have been his wife but it could have been his daughter or even to keep intruders out. its pretty neat trap on the gutter(not sure if trap is the correct term, its pretty obvious)
Joseph,
I agree. The possibilities are endless. In the end it was a very unique item.
Mike