Come and discover all the sides of the city: Minden – Absolutely remarkable! The founding of Minden:

In 772 A.D., during the Saxonian conquests, Charlemagne (Karl der Große) pit his armies against rival chieftain Widukind (Witte - kind). After years of bitter struggle, in 798 A.D. a peace treaty was created and signed at the foot of his castle on the banks of the Weser. It was then decreed that, “This cast- le shall from henceforth on be ‘min’ (mine) and ‘din’ (yours).” That’s how ‘Minden’ got its name – remarkable!

Welcome to Remarkable Minden

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Publishing and Content: Welcome and thank you for reading! In the next Preface...………………………………….……..…………2 Minden Marketing GmbH few pages, the team here at Minden Marketing GmbH Welcome to Historic Minden Domstraße 2 • 32423 Minden would like to introduce you our gem of a city and Credits...... …………………………………..……….….2 phone: (05 71) 8 29 06 59 some of the possibilities that it has to offer! fax: (05 71) 8 29 06 63 We highly encourage all of our guests (and locals!) to Once upon a time in 798 ... www.mindenmarketing.de Welcome to Historic Minden...... ……...…...……3 E-mail:[email protected] explore our remarkable city and also the surrounding www.minden-erleben.de region! Minden: well worth seeing...…….…………...……4 …Charlemagne (Karl der Große) called for Located where the town market (Marktbetrieb) now sits, Editing: Minden is host to a long history filled with traditions Minden Marketing GmbH an assembly in Minda. Found in the Minden’s successful medieval market drew traders, craftsmen Minden, City of Churches..………...…………....…6 and customs! Today our city is enriched by diverse Printing: cultural activities, magical festivals, athletic events, French annals, this record is the first and commerce to the city. Minden in the Weser Renaissance.……..…....…8 JCC Bruns GmbH unique shopping locales, delectable cuisine and last, official mention of Minden and marks the In the Middle Ages, Minden was part of the Hanseatic League, © 2009 | Auflage: 5.000 but not least, abundant recreation and leisure oppor- beginning of more than 1200 years of an extensive network of trading cities and guilds. These ties Minden and Prussia...... …….…..…...….....…9 Schutzgebühr: 5,00 € tunities. Together they help make Minden into the remarkable place that it is. history. In the year 800, Minden became to commercial cities helped Minden to grow and flourish. Layout and Design: Leisure in Minden...... ……...... …….……..…10 [email protected] a diocese town (Bischofssitz) and Eventually, the Marien- and Simeon- hamlets (Vorstädte) All of these opportunities are available both as established its first cathedral. came to be. Experiencing Minden...……..….…....….…………12 Photographs and Images: individual and group packages through our booking American Jewish Archives (Cincinnati/Ohio), service! Whether you’re planning an extended By 977, Minden enjoyed many privileges In Minden an economic boom followed the Reformation. Atelier Pfleiderer/S. Pohlmann, A. Bernhard Minden and the Surrounding Region...…...…14 vacation, day-tripping, or just passing through; our (Ring der Wassersportvereine um die Porta including the right to coin money, furnish Today many of the constructions built during this time still Westfalica e.V.), R. Brune, W. Hedrich, booking service can help make your visit to Minden markets, levy tariffs and to hold court. grace the city. One can also find many architectural remnants B. Horstmann (www.treffpunkt-minden.de), unforgettable! P. Hübbe, V. Krusche, Minden Marketing These laid the foundations for the further and traces of the years under the Brandenburg-Prussian GmbH, M. Lorenz, M. Otto, B. Schulte, Your Team at the Minden Marketing GmbH development of the episcopal town. monarchy. See the sights and stroll through the centuries! Chr. Schwier, Chr. Weber, A. Weigelt, H. Wiese, D. Wilkening,

This brochure was made possible with the generous financial support of the JCC Bruns GmbH.

2 2 3 A view of Minden from the columned cloister of the cathedral’s westwork.

The old hamlet (Vorstadt) of Minden, a picturesque fishing village (‘Fischerstadt’), has had its own fortifications since the Middle Ages. Every Thursday at exactly 8:00 p.m., Minden’s night- watchman Helga Simon begins her rounds at the Minden well worth seeing city-hall alcove (Rathaus - laube). From here she well worth seeing winds her way through the picturesque passages of the Minden’s exceptional history becomes even more old city (Altstadt). apparent when strolling through the town’s Company is heartily wel- upper and lower districts! Wandering along the comed and is sure to find a cobbled streets and lanes can feel nearly medie- very special sort of nightlife! val; the narrow timbered houses harkening back to a time when craftsmen and merchants still traded their wares.

Close by sit the proud and stately 16th century houses of merchants and gentry – impressive More than 1000 years old, Minden’s cathedral Today Minden bears the traces of Romanesque, reminders of the wealth and self-confidence harmoniously combines romantic and gothic Gothic, Weser Renaissance and Classical styles, of this era. The quiet beauty of the buildings’ architectural styles. Considered by many to be all of which add to its distinctive history and romantic angles and ivy-covered facades makes the most beautiful hall church in Germany, the charm. Come and get away from it all! for a perfect pause. cathedral is not to be missed! Just a few steps Enjoy the magic of Minden! away sits the impressive town hall, complete with the oldest ‘town hall alcove’ (Rathauslaube) in Westphalia.

Shopping thoroughfares flanked by stores and broad open squares alternate with narrow alleyways and quiet lanes.

Learning about Minden can be very entertaining! Try a walking Minden’s proud inhabitants have worked passio- history lesson while strolling through the many sites with a friendly nately to restore their city to its pre-war charm. tour guide. Groups can book themed tours focusing on Minden’s churches (Kirchen in Minden), the botanical garden and old ceme-

tery (Botanischer Garten und Alter Friedhof), Prussian Tour The Straße am Weingarten is a typical street in the (Preußentour), the Weser Renaissance (Weserrenaissance), as well Old Town (Altstadt). as the “Cool Wine and Fresh Beer” (Kühler Wein und frisches The regal “Haus Voss” was originally the town’s curia Bier) tour. Check the Tourist Information booth on Domstraße (administrative building), but was taken over by the The so-called “Alte locksmith and metalworker Julius Voss in 1893. for more information and current tour offerings. Münze” (Old Coin) was The city-hall (Rathaus) was built in 1260 The blacksmith’s lingering craftsmanship still adorns built out of sandstone out of stone to serve as a tribute to the town. the doors. blocks in the 13 th Near St. Martinkirche stands a timbered house century. The beautiful, gothic alcove (Rathauslaube) Though the original pur- is still present today. After sustaining extensive (Fachwerkhaus). In bygone centuries, this was the home pose of this building is now damage in the wars, the building was restored of Minden’s ‘waits’, who served as the city’s watchmen, unknown, it was used as a by Berlin architect Werner March. tower keepers and also musicians. The “Windloch” was mint in the 16 built next door to serve as a storage barn. th century. 4 5 Minden’s cathedral is located in the center of the city. One can climb the towers on the first and third Saturdays of the month at 11:00 a.m. This row of “Weser sharp. A stained-glass Renaissance” houses is part window known as the ‘Rose of the Minden Museum of of Minden’ (Mindener Rose) History, Region, and graces the northern nave. Folklore. MindenWeser in the WeserRenaissance Renaissance ChurchChurch City Minden City

The history of Minden’s cathedral starts at the The gothic hall with its famous tracery windows end of the 8th century when a simple Saalkirche was attached to the earlier structure. The cathe- (hall church) without any towers was constructed dral was heavily damaged during World War II, on the cathedral hill. Later, this minimal edifice but has been completely restored to its earlier was replaced by a 3-aisle long-house, with form. For almost 450 years, the original Golden an eastern transept, a choir and most likely an Tablet (Goldenen Tafel) crowned the cathedral’s exterior crypt. choir. A replica tablet was commissioned for more, try touring some of Minden’s other The “Haus Hagermeyer” is During the 10th century, a central western-transept the 1200-year anniversary celebration of the churches (shown below). The Simeonis church the former home of the th was added, giving the cathedral its final shape. diocese. It has been on display since Pentecost (founded at the beginning of the 13 century) merchant (Großkaufmann) Construction on this section was completed of 2002. and the church of the Benedictines (built by and mayor (Bürgermeister) in the 12th century. Sometime before the middle Inside the cathedral, diverse Christian artefacts the same order who founded the St. Mauritius Thomas von Kampen. It is of the 13th century, a late-Romanesque choir certainly warrant closer examination. But, what- monastery in 1042) also have rich histories and the most well-known example Although the What would the hometown ledge with richly moulded glassed-fronts was ever you do, don’t miss the cathedral’s treasury! are always worth a visit! of Weser Renaissance archi- structures are much of the world famous Melitta built. The Minden Cross (dating from 1070), the Petri tecture in Minden. These older, the term Weser Company be without a coffee shrine (1071) and the silver Madonna (1230) structures are characterized Renaissance (Weser- museum? The Minden are among the many marvels contained within. by frieze patterns and renaissance) was first Museum has dedicated an If your visit to the cathedral left you eager for figures. There are many coined in the 20th entire section to the diverse Pictured from left to right: more examples to be found century. The style of cultural and historical th century. The Martinikirche dates back to an arched-basilica in the Minden Museum and building is characterized by decorated timbered aspects of coffee; most impor- (Gewölbebasilika) from the second half of the 12 residences (Bürgerhäusern) houses and embellished sandstone facades on both tantly, the rich evolution of However, the original building burned to the ground on th century the Martinikirche’s around town. citizen and noble residences. This style of building reflects the coffee filter. multiple occasions. In the 14 Minden’s economic prosperity in the 16th century and examples can aisles were modernized and the structure was converted be found throughout the city. Together buildings like these create the into a hall church (Hallenkirche). The Marienkirche was perfect backdrop for the Minden Museum (Ritterstraße 23–33) which looks built as a convent church (Klosterkirche) by Benedictine very much like a 17th century lane. Inside the museum you can find versatile th century, this church was also converted nuns. In the 14 exhibits about Minden’s civic and cultural histories and numerous remnants into a Hallenkirche. The simple baroque Petrikirche was th century for the Evangelist-Refor - from middle-class dwellings done in the Weser Renaissance style. constructed in the 18 Interested in the Weser Renaissance? We recommend an informative mation congregation. The Johanniskirche has been home sightseeing tour for anyone who would like to learn more! of Minden’s “BÜZ” culture center (Kulturzentrum 6 7 “BÜZ”) for 25 years. Kostüme aus der Preußenzeit wirken immer noch anziehend ...

Minden and Prussia The Fort A building dates from the times of the Prussia Prussian fortification, but was left to itself for many Minden’s bi-annual years. More recently it has After the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, Minden was received by Freischießen (literally ‘free been used as a performance Brandenburg-Prussia, and subsequently governed and fortified by shooting’) festival is the space by the Minden’s the monarchy. Until 1873, the ramparts protected the province of most important festival in Tucholsky-Bühne theatre Westphalia from the Hanoverian empire. Visitors to the Prussian the area. The citizen batta- troupe. Museum can follow these traces of time. Here a 1500 square meter lion (Bürgerbataillon) has exhibition space has been dedicated to the display of original artifacts been a town tradition for of, extensive reproductions from, and vivid multi-media exhibits more than 300 years. about the era. The museum is located in a former defense barracks, one of the earliest large-scale military edifices still present in Minden was a highly desirable settlement site due to its location on the banks of a river. As a result, Minden today. it needed to be constantly defended against invaders. Fire could also be devastating as it could Many other souvenirs of the Prussian era remain in Minden today, spread uncontrollably through the densely settled area inside the fortress. In order to counter these such as the garrison military hospital, the supply depot, the army threats, the town’s residents were pressed into military service – a practice that would evolve into bakery, ‘Fort C’ and the train station. The Prussian-style buildings Minden’s citizen battalion (Bürgerbataillon). In the 17th century Marksmanship training became show the influence of the famous Prussian architect Karl Fried - mandatory for all Minden’s citizens. Eventually the town council decided to dedicate a festival to rich Schinkel. The Cologne-Minden railway was established the practice. The best shooter was determined and then rewarded with tax relief for a year. The term in 1844. Since 1845, the rails and buildings of the Cologne- ‘free-shooting’ (Freischießen) was born. Nowadays Minden’s Bürger battalion is still keeping the Minden railway have been integrated into the fortress system. tradition alive by celebrating a multi-day festival which is enjoyed by Minden’s locals and visitors. The tracks of the Cologne- Minden railway were pro- Brandenburg-Prussian rule tected by Minden’s various began in Minden under forts. Of these, Fort C Friedrich Wilhelm von (above) and Fort A have Brandenburg, the so-called been almost completely The Silver Crown (commis- Great Elector (Große Kur - preserved. (Left: Fort B). sioned in 1730) is brought füst). out of the museum to cele- The former fortress’ supply brate Minden’s Freischießen larder (Proviantmagazin) (literally, ‘free-shooting’) is still in use by the Weser - festival. The Latin inscripti- kolleg. on reads; “A noble gift from the king to his people who support the forts.” 8 9 The intersection at Minden’s Aqueduct (the Mindener Wasserstraßen - kreuz) is an important hub for inland water navigation. In 1998 a new water bridge was added to the aqueduct during. As a result of this enterprise, large ‘Europashiffe’-type barges (some reaching 1,350 tonnes) can pass through the aqueduct.

The bocce pitch near the ship-mill grinder (Schiff - mühle) is a favorite mee- ting place in the summer for informal gatherings. Leisure in LeisureMinden

In 1906, construction finally began on one of Don’t miss the turning (filling or emptying) of the Try a stroll along the glacis, the embankment the region’s largest water projects: The Rhine- central lock! The visitor center at the central lock that now runs where Minden’s wall once stood. Weser canal. In 1914, construction was comple- offers all sorts of information, exhibits, models, Here you will find a charming green space, per- Whether walking, biking, or inline skating, the ted on a massive aqueduct in Minden. Here two and films detailing inland water navigation. fect for leisure, sports, or just relaxing. Whether Weser Promenade offers pleasant and natural parallel water bridges allow the “Midland You will find a special treat on the banks of the you want to organize an afternoon picnic, or paths along the river. Cycling enthusiasts Canal” (Mittellandkanal) to flow over the Weser Weser! A fully-functioning 18th century mill has else try something more active – running, wal- can enjoy the attractive Weser bike trail, which River. At 371 meters, this structure is one of the been reconstructed and guests are invited to king, or power-walking – this secluded, natural leads along the Weser Promenade and into the If the weather’s nice, largest water bridges in the world. Minden’s watch the grinding of grain into flour. trek is perfect when you just want to get away city. make sure not to miss passenger navigation service offers informatio- Weser visitors should definitely book a trip on from it all. The glacis also hosts two playgrounds, the old cemetery (Alte nal cruises where visitors can learn about the our lovingly restored paddle steamboat, complete perfect for the little ones! Friedhof) and the botani- central lock, pumping station, canal bridge and The high point of any with an original steam-engine! Nostalgic fun cal garden (Botanischer the southern route. Weser cruise is a trip for everyone! Garten). Tours are also available! through the locks that connect the river to the canal.

A foot-bridge connects the Kanzlers Weide Many Minden locals enjoy spending their (now used as a free parking lot and spare time along the Weser. camping area for recreational vehicles) to downtown Minden (the Innenstadt). It takes only seven minutes Across from “Kanzlers Weide” (literally, for the lock to turn ‘the chancellor’s pasture’) lies the recon- (mechanically raise or structed ship-mill grinder (Schiff mühle) 10 lower the water level in the which heartily welcomes visitors. 11 chamber) over 13 meters! In 1996, archaeologists discovered a monument of great historical and artistic importance at the Widu - kind (Wittekind) Castle. The site was discovered within the grounds of the pre-Roman fort structure. The structure contains the foundations and walls of a rare 10th century church whose ground plan follows the form of a cross.

The well-preserved, unador- ned stone blocks form a Greek cross embedded in the earth. The cross itself measures approximately 14 meters across. Five graves were unearthed inside the church, three of which belonged to children. A glass enclosure helps to Looking for an unusual excursion? Try an protect the artifacts from Experiencing Minden exploration of the Solar System via Min den’s the elements. planet trek. Using a scale of 1:1 billion, the Contact and Info: Great fun awaits young Experiencing route mimics the enormous size and distance 00 49 -(0) 5 71 - 3 31 02 and old alike at Potts of our solar system. Here the Sun measures Park theme park and 1.39 meters, the Earth 1.3 cm and Pluto is a Note: programs featuring specific visitor “Terra Phänomenalis” ‘mere’ 5.9 kilometers away. The planet trek attractions can be individually tailored for (Phenomenal Earth) commemorates the 150th anniversary of the groups and school classes science center! death of astronomer Friedrich William Bessel and was established in 1996 by the pupils and teachers of the Besselgymnasium. This attraction can be best experienced by bike. Start at the Prussian museum (the Sun) and continue along the Weser towards Petershagen. More planets are waiting for you along the bike path...

Minden’s attractions are as numerous as they The mine at Kleinenbremen are marvellous! Why not travel with the museum is open for tours and offers railway and venture into the surrounding coun- its visitors a journey tryside? You can either visit the Südhemmern through the underworld. windmill and continue into the Hiller moorland Here with kids? Potts Park will make everyone’s Tours will leave visitors or else take a tour of the mine at Kleinen- day! Perfect for families, the unique fun park with a lasting impression bremen? Perhaps you want to try the mill route offers unusual rides and attractions, including of the interior workings and go by steam train and/or ship? You can the wild water course and water roundabout, of an iron ore mine. The even do it all! The museum railway’s daily route roller coaster, and (our favorite) merry ‘pig’ rides accompanying Museum During the traditional Several super straight-aways makes combining trips easy. on the Lazy Sow. Everyone can take part in the of Mining and Earth Minden’s large equestrian In keeping with their ‘hands-on’ “Kranzreiten” (wreath- interactive fun of the pedal ride, water fun park Science offers additional make Minden an inline tournament is a high-level motto (“Anfassen erlaubt”), the ride), jockeys attempt to and slide areas, complete with crazy bikes. information. sporting event! With its skater’s paradise! Lille Kunterbunt art school offers grab a frond from a wreath Want to feel young again (or at least small)? diverting program, classes, hands-on art activities, hanging high above them Then try the fun house where everything is The Minden Museum this lively event is fun for and themed day events suitable while galloping their horses scaled to make you the same height as your invites you to learn more The outlying Haddenhausen Castle the entire family! for children and young people. at full speed around a (Schloss Haddenhausen) two year old. (Try putting your nose over this about steam trains and Info: 05 71 - 2 43 68 track. A brave jockey might captivates visitors with its table ledge!) In search of something educatio- trams. even stand on the back of delightful location and typical nal? The “Terra Phenomenalis” science center is his fast-moving horse in Weser Renaissance ornamentation. a new addition to the park. This ‘weatherproof’, order to better reach the interactive exhibition fosters fun and learning. wreath (hanging as high 12 13 as 4.50 meters)! Situated in a wonderful park filled with ancient trees, Bückeburg Castle (Schloss Bückeburg) is definitely worth seeing. The emblematic Even in present times it is Emporer Wilhelm still the seat of the House Monument (Kaiser- of Shaumburg-Lippe. The former grain distillery Wilhelm-Denkmal) is built and the “Großes Torfmoor” out of genuine Westphalian See rare water birds and White Storks along the Petershagen “Stork (“great peat bog”) nature sandstone and is definitely Route.” This 50km long adventure trek leads you to the many attractions preserve are special features worth seeing! of the Weser floodplain (Weseraue). In the area you will find various mills, of the Hille municipality the Heimsen Museum of Homeland and Herring-fishing (Heimat- und (Gemeinde). Heringsfängermuseum Heimsen) and the Westphalian Industrial Museum Glassworks at Gernheim. Here you can look over a glassmaker’s shoulder Minden’s Surrounding Region as he prepares glass using traditional techniques. The impressive Castle Petershagen on the Weser (Schloss Petershagen) Surrounding was built in 1306. One can take a tour to learn of the building’s turbulent history. (Kaiserpalais) and hotel spa The Imperial Palace Barre’s Brewery in Lübbecke is one of Germany’s oldest pilsner breweries. (Kurhaus) buildings are Porta Westfalica, literally “the gate to West- stony reminders of the rich After a tour of Ernst Barre’s Private Brewery (Privatbrauerei Ernst Barre) phalia”, connects the southern Weser highlands history and tradition of the museum, enjoy a fresh draught beer in the “Old Storage Cellar”! (Weserbergland) to the lowlands to the north. public spas at Oeynhausen. The museum at “Barre’s This area is an ideal start point for hiking or Brauwelt” (Barre’s ‘Brew- cycling trips. Eleven long-distance trails begin, world’) reveals the time- end, or lead through the slopes of the Weser and honored history and brewing Wiehen hills, some passing below the Emporer traditions of Ernst Barre’s Wilhelm Memorial. In former times Bückeburg acted as a seat of Private Brewery (Privat- Nearby one can find the spa town of Bad government (Residenzstadt). Today several brauerei Ernst Barre). Oyenhausen which was founded 150 years ago. attractions await you: the local castle with the For tours and info: Today the Gernheim Here guests can relax and unwind. Golden Hall, the park and the mausoleum, the 0049(57 41) 2 30 49 50. Glassworks is a The impressive Imperial Palace (Kaiser Palast) town church complete with Weser Renaissance Westphalian industrial and spa (Bad) stand as testaments to the long facade, the helicopter museum with more than museum. history of the local spring. 40 real helicopters and the National Museum Castle Petershagen (Schloss with its valuable collection of costumes. Petershagen) was originally built to be a Bishop’s residence. The unscathed wilderness of Hiller Torfmoor (peat-bog) is heaven for nature lovers. The marsh reserve provides a safe habitat for The rare White Stork endangered flora and fauna. still nests around Petershagen. 14 15 Minden Marketing GmbH Domstraße 2 32423 Minden Germany phone: (05 71) 8 29 06 59 fax: (05 71) 8 29 06 63 www.mindenmarketing.de E-mail:[email protected] www.minden-erleben.de