Münster Germany - A City of Captivating Contrasts

Münster Germany boasts a vibrant past and impressive sights to experience, located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany. Muenster boasts an idyllic old town and an abundance of parks to discover during your visit, not to mention numerous castles to explore.

St. Lamberti Church

Münster is an enchanting town in Westphalia that boasts several fascinating structures to see, such as the Lamberti Church, considered to be an outstanding example of late Gothic style in Westphalia. This church dates back to 14th-century construction but has undergone multiple reconstructions throughout its lifetime, most recently featuring an 1889 tower reconstruction project. Inside the church are paintings and crucifixes from many centuries past, along with a 17th-century pulpit and baptism font, as well as numerous beautiful sandstone sculptures.

Another outstanding feature of this church is its extraordinary tradition of having its tower keeper's horn blow every half an hour from 9pm to midnight – something shared by other locations like Bad Wimpfen, Nordlingen and Krakow. Lambertikirche stands out from other churches in the city with one unique feature that sets it apart: the Baptist baskets. Once used to hold Jan van Leiden, Bernd Krechting, and Bernd Knipperdolling before they were tortured and murdered here. Buildings damaged during World War II were painstakingly restored, becoming an attractive tourist destination and architectural history center. Tours are available of the Peace Hall used during negotiations for treaties, such as Westphalia Peace Treaty negotiations.

The Hall of Peace

The Hall of Peace stands out as an iconic landmark. This was where one of Europe's most important peace treaties, The Treaty of Westphalia, came about to end the Thirty Years' War in 1648. The building stands as an impressive example of Gothic secular architecture, with traceried windows, arches, and pinnacles adorning its exterior facade. Inside is equally captivating with numerous paintings covering its ceiling. Muenster's Lambertikirche should be on your itinerary. By day, enjoy strolling its dark stonework; at nighttime, make sure you hear its iconic bell tolling every half hour by its famous Turmer (horn-blower). One of only few remaining traditions worldwide!

There is also a museum dedicated to the history and architecture of this church, giving visitors an in-depth overview. The art on display includes mostly paintings, but there are also sculptures and remains from medieval crypts in this impressive exhibit. The Münster must-see attractions also include a memorial dedicated to Anabaptist leaders executed there in 1535; three cages once used to hold their bodies are still visible from its belfry. Learn the history and evolution of peace in Europe over time through 33 cabinets featuring artifacts and information panels related to its theme.

The museum's exhibitions center around “Pathways to Peace”, beginning by exploring what constitutes peace itself, as well as its impact on redrawing Europe. Next come specific topics such as mediation and key treaties that have been signed in the past; finally ending with current issues and challenges that threaten its continuation.

Museum of Lacquer Art

Münster Museum of Lacquer Art boasts an impressive collection of lacquer items from around the globe, and also hosts special exhibits that explore both traditional and contemporary aspects of lacquer art. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the early Middle Ages. Additionally, its modern international sculptural collection is highly esteemed. Established in 1989, this museum is unique in North Rhine-Westphalia. It houses collections including Chinese lacquerware, art deco pieces and contemporary applied arts and crafts collections.

This museum is an absolute must in Germany and features thought-provoking exhibits that explore its cultural history. Chronologically organized exhibits demonstrate Germany's cultural development throughout time. With an incredible collection of over 1.3 million items, this museum is one of the largest museums in Europe and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. The permanent collection spans from prehistoric civilization to contemporary culture; special exhibitions provide new insights into regional history.

This architectural wonder stands as an iconic monument in Münster and welcomes its surrounding community with large glass windows that showcase openness to the surrounding environment. The inside is spacious enough for visitors to easily navigate without losing track of important artwork and displays. The LWL Museum of Art and Culture in Münster has long been an attractive draw, delighting guests ever since its debut. Showcasing internationally recognized artists as well as unique perspectives, its temporary exhibitions feature themes that provide guests with an engaging experience that they won't soon forget.

St. Paulus Dom Cathedral

No matter your taste in architecture, Munster Cathedral should not be missed when visiting Germany's oldest church and the city of Münster. Its beautiful grounds make an impressive sight. The cathedral sits atop Domplatz Square in the city center. Here, people gather to take in all that the world offers them, taking photos along its bustling paths if it is a sunny day and taking advantage of its prime photo spots. Within this cathedral are stunning architectural masterpieces in both its nave and dome, an immense, 365 foot dome which is one of the largest domes ever seen anywhere in the world. You might be lucky enough to climb to the dome if you have the perseverance, but be warned of its steep spiral climb, not recommended for weak-kneed visitors! Your admission ticket also provides access to the Triforium Gallery, which overlooks arches within wall thickness.

At the triforium, there's an American-themed chapel dedicated to America's veterans. The walls feature the symbols from all 50 states, while James Thornhill painted its cupola. St. Paulus Dom offers much more to discover, so be sure to schedule at least a couple of hours for your visit. If you're into art, don't miss the MMK museum (Hafenweg 28). This comprehensive museum houses collections of paintings, sculpture, graphics, architecture, artistic craftsmanship and weapons and hunting equipment; there is even a large selection of German Renaissance paintings such as Lukas Cranach or Albrecht Durer works, alongside those by August Macke - a prominent German expressionist painter of the 1960s and 70s whose works can also be found there.

Schloss Münster

Münster is an ancient-yet-young city, offering an extraordinary blend of history, tradition, romance, modern art, urban culture and magnetic free spirit. Voted one of Europe's most livable cities, Munster boasts captivating contrasts that inspire, challenge and encourage you to bring out the best in you!

Schloss Münster is one of the city's best-known landmarks, designed by Baroque architect Johann Conrad Schlaun between 1767-1787 as one of his masterpieces of German architecture. Now standing as an iconic symbol, it remains an excellent example of German architecture and stands as an iconic landmark within Muenster itself.

Visit Schloss Münster and take a guided tour through its museum and galleries that feature paintings and sculptures from medieval to modern eras. Along with interactive exhibits that give you a sense of its past and present, along with its role during World War II.

Whispering Galleries at the cathedral are another fun feature that adds another element of magic! When whispered across these steps, your voice can be heard clearly as though standing right beside them!

Attractions inside the Dom are sure to delight, including its iconic astronomical clock, which every day at noon provides a remarkable medieval clock show, not to be missed by tourists visiting this area! Additionally, don't miss the tower guard blowing her horn each evening (except Tuesdays ) in celebration of another long and prosperous day ending!