Charlemagne, Prussians and the Weser Renaissance in Minden

Minden’s cathedral dates back to a bishopric founded
by Charlemagne

The Lion watches over Minden’s Löwenapotheke building 

After landing in Amsterdam, I boarded the Berlin bound InterCity train, stopping off for part of the day in the historic town of Minden. Foundations of the city date back to the time of Charlemagne, who established a bishopric here in the late 8th century. Its cathedral is still a highlight of the city. 

Minden is known for its architecture, focusing on the periods of the Weser Renaissance, Brick Gothic from its era in the Hanseatic League, and, as seen in its railway station, its time under the control of Prussia. It is also has a notable cathedral.

One of the town's highlights is the Schnurrviertel a nicely preserved part of the old town with small shops, pubs and restaurants. A selection of historic architecture on the charming Ritterstrasse is home to the Mindener Museum, which documents the rich history of the town. Elsewhere the Alte Münze, or old mint, is now a Greek restaurant, and local designs and artworks can be explored at Keramikwerkstatt  and Käpt´n Eta.

For more information, click here to visit Minden online.