Hagen

With about 82 million inhabitants, Germany is the most populous member state of the European Union. Germany's capital and largest metropolis is Berlin, while its largest conurbation is the Ruhr, with its main centres of Dortmund and Essen. The country's other major cities are Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Leipzig, Bremen, Dresden, Hannover, and Nuremberg. Elevation ranges from the mountains of the Alps in the south to the shores of the North Sea in the northwest and the Baltic Sea  in the northeast. The forested uplands of central Germany and the lowlands of northern Germany are traversed by such major rivers as the Rhine, Danube and Elbe. Germany's alpine glaciers are experiencing deglaciation. When thinking of Germany, beer, lederhosen and Alpine hats quickly come to mind, but these stereotypes mostly relate to Bavarian culture and do not represent Germany as a whole. Germany is a vast and diverse country with 16 culturally unique states that have been politically united since 1871. Even within states there is often considerable cultural diversity.

Germany

Its capital is Düsseldorf; the largest city is Cologne. Four of Germany's ten largest cities (Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, and Essen) are located in this state, as well as the second largest metropolitan area on the European continent, Rhine-Ruhr. Beethoven, Heinrich Heine or Joseph Beuys - Germany's most populous land has seen the birth of many well-known artists and is one of Europe's great cultural regions. Museums, theaters, orchestras and concert halls, musicals and other events attract millions of visitors every year. In addition to these cultural achievements, there are four World Heritage sites: Cologne Cathedral, Aachen Cathedral, Augustusburg Castle in Brühl and Zollverein Mine in Essen. The symbol of Cologne is even the most visited curiosity of Germany.

North Rhine-Westphalia

Located in **the North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany**, **Hagen** is an important city in **the Ruhr area**. Just 15 km away from [Dortmund](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/a-day-in-series-dortmund-g22l), Hagen seems like a dull city before you get to see it! **This cute city is where the Lenne and Volme rivers meet **and have an important role in its industry even before the 15th century! **The city's history dated way back to c.1200! **But the city got its today's shape in the 19th century the mining of coal and the production of steel in the Ruhr Area. During **the World War II**, the city was bombed heavily. That's why it is hard to find any historical places but trust me, the city compensates with lots of other things! **If you are wondering what you can do after visiting Dortmund, here is your guide for Hagen!**

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**Osthaus Museum** is an **art museum **which hosts **Karl Ernst Osthaus' art collection!** Its** interior **was designed by **famous Henry van de Velde**. Not only Osthaus, inside of this museum you will also see **paintings by Christian Rohlfs**, the most important collection of paintings by **Emil Schumacher **and many more. If you are into** avant-garde art and architecture**, you should check out this museum.

**Hagen Open-air Museum **or in German **"LWL-Freilichtmuseum Hagen – Westfälisches Landesmuseum für Handwerk und Technik"** located in the Hagen neighborhood of** Selbecke south of Eilpe in the Mäckingerbach valley**. In here you can find lots of **half-timbered houses **as well as **crafts and trades workshop!** This open-air museum offers you to gain skills in **ropemaking, smithing, brewing, baking, tanning, printing, milling, papermaking and many more!** If you are visiting here between March or April until October, you have to visit this museum! 

**Blätterhöhle cave **is a place where **the oldest fossils of modern people **in Westphalia and the Ruhr were found. Some fossils **date back 10,700 years B.C!** The skeletons that have found here state that indigenous hunter-gatherers lived alongside farmers who migrated to Central Europe from the Near East! This cave was discovered in 2014 by archaeologists who excavated **more than 450 skeletal fragments. Hagen is definitely "Cradle of Mankind" of Germany!**

And lastly, **Werdringen Castle!** **This haunted castle surrounded by water **was built in the XIII century and was owned by the local feudal lords! It has a **Neo-Gothic style **and it has been used as a hotel in the middle of the XIX century! In here you can see r**emains of ancient insects that lived in these places 318 million years ago!** Pretty cool huh :D. If that is not enough, you can also check out** the swords of the Bronze Age found at the foot of Mount Kaisberg too!**

For the imprint please go to 'Further Information'.

Melanie Redlberger posts for the Osthaus Museum.

The Osthaus Museum in the Kunstquartier Hagen offers its visitors intensive encounters with artistic expressions ranging from classical modernism to contemporary positions.
In the Art Nouveau ambience of the historic Folkwang-Bau u.a. Works by Late-Impressionism and Expressionism, works by Christian Rohlfs and the expansive installation "The Architecture of Remembrance" by Sigrid Sigurdsson Additional exhibitions set changing priorities In the "Junge Museum", a differentiated program of mediation opens doors to art. As a branch office acts the Art Nouveau Villa Hohenhof with an exhibition on the "Hagen impulse".

Further information
Imprint:
Osthaus Museum Hagen
Museum Square 3
58095 Hagen
T. +49 2331 207 3138
Fax +49 2331 207 402
kultur@stadt-hagen.de

Editor: Melanie Redlberger, consultant for social media and public relations, Department of Culture of the City of Hagen

© Osthaus Museum Hagen and the artists, photographers and authors

Photo credit:
Cover picture: Werner Hannappel
Profile picture: Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, artist group, around 1012, Osthaus Museum Hagen

Unless otherwise stated, all pages on this information server are subject to copyright by the City of Hagen.

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Osthaus Museum Hagen

### Discover the Living History at Hagen Open-air Museum

If you're a history enthusiast or simply love immersing yourself in the past, then the Hagen Open-air Museum is a must-visit destination in Hagen, Germany. This unique museum, also known as the LWL-Freilichtmuseum Hagen – Westfälisches Landesmuseum für Handwerk und Technik, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich craft and technological heritage.

### A Journey Through Time

Established in 1960, the Hagen Open-air Museum, together with the Detmold Open-air Museum, aims to preserve and showcase the technological monuments of the past. Nestled in the picturesque Mäckingerbach valley, the museum spans an impressive 42 hectares and features over 60 reconstructed workshops.

### Step into the Past

Unlike traditional open-air museums, the Hagen Open-air Museum focuses on the history of skilled trades and industries in Westphalia. As you explore the grounds, you'll have the opportunity to witness various crafts and trades in action. From ropemaking and smithing to brewing and baking, each workshop offers a hands-on experience that allows visitors to participate in the production process.

### Highlights of the Museum

One of the museum's main attractions is the triphammer workshop. Here, you can witness a craftsman skillfully forging a scythe using traditional techniques. The rhythmic sound of the hammer striking the anvil creates an immersive atmosphere, transporting you back in time.

### Architectural Marvels

The Hagen Open-air Museum is not only a treasure trove of historical artifacts but also boasts impressive architectural features. The two-part pavilion, designed by Schnoklake Betz Dömer, serves as the starting and stopping point of the museum's train. Its inclined roofs and suspended metal grids create a visually striking structure that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape.

### When to Visit

The Hagen Open-air Museum is open year-round, allowing visitors to explore its wonders in any season. However, the museum truly comes alive during special events and festivals. From traditional craft demonstrations to historical reenactments, these events offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant history of the region.

### Nearby Attractions

While in Hagen, take the opportunity to explore other attractions in the area. The nearby Hagen Westphalian State Museum of Art and Cultural History is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Additionally, the beautiful Hohenhof villa, designed by renowned architect Henry van de Velde, is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

### Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Hagen Open-air Museum, be sure to check their website for opening hours and event schedules. The museum offers guided tours and workshops, providing a deeper understanding of the region's craft and technological history.

### Conclusion

The Hagen Open-air Museum is a captivating destination that brings history to life. Whether you're interested in traditional crafts, architectural marvels, or simply want to immerse yourself in the past, this museum offers a unique and enriching experience. Plan your visit to Hagen and discover the living history at the Hagen Open-air Museum.

Hagen Open-air Museum

### Discover the Enchanting Werdringen Castle in Hagen

Hidden away in the picturesque Ruhr valley, at the foot of the legendary Kaisberg, lies the enchanting Werdringen Castle. This 13th-century noble residence is not only a stunning architectural wonder but also a gateway to a unique natural and historical landscape.

### A Journey Through Time at the Museum Wasserschloss Werdringen

One of the highlights of Werdringen Castle is the Museum Wasserschloss Werdringen, which showcases a fascinating collection of archaeological and paleontological finds. The museum takes visitors on a journey through time, presenting artifacts ranging from stone tools used by Neanderthals to relics of castles from the High Middle Ages.

### Marvel at Ancient Fossils and Historical Artifacts

One of the main attractions at the museum is its collection of fossils. Visitors can marvel at the oldest fossils in Westphalia, including early land plants from the Middle Devonian and huge primal insects from the Upper Carboniferous. These fossils provide a glimpse into the ancient ecosystems that once thrived in the region.

In addition to the fossils, the museum also houses a variety of historical artifacts. Among them are three swords from the Bronze Age, found at the foot of Mount Kaisberg, not far from the castle. These swords offer a fascinating insight into the early history of the area.

### Explore the Natural Surroundings

The natural surroundings of Werdringen Castle are equally captivating. The castle is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, dotted with paleontological, archaeological, and historical monuments. Exploring the area, visitors can discover hidden gems such as the leaf cave in Hagen, where the oldest remains of modern post-Ice Age people in Europe were found, dating back over 11,000 years.

### Immerse Yourself in History and Nature

To fully immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of Werdringen Castle, plan your visit during the warmer months when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. Take a leisurely stroll through the castle grounds, admiring the beautiful architecture and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

After exploring the castle, venture out into the surrounding area to discover more historical and natural attractions. Visit the leaf cave and learn about the early inhabitants of the region, or take a hike up Mount Kaisberg for panoramic views of the Ruhr valley.

### Plan Your Visit to Werdringen Castle

Werdringen Castle and its museum are open to the public, allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating history and natural wonders of the region. The castle is located in Hagen, Germany, and can be easily reached by car or public transportation.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique experience, Werdringen Castle and its museum are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through time at this captivating destination in Hagen.

Werdringen Castle

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A day in series: Hagen!

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My name is Alara Benlier, I am Turkish but currently living in Germany! My first traveling experience was in 2013 to Europe. I remember falling in love with the architecture, the culture, the art and of course the food. After that, I wanted to explore more, not as a tourist but as a local, that's why I did the Erasmus Programme and went to the Netherlands, a life-changing experience for me. Traveling became a passion. I love meeting new cultures, learning something new every day, seeing new places, tasting the delicious food and being not just a tourist, but a traveler. I am excited to share all my experiences, make a difference in people’s lives and make them enjoy traveling more. So if you want to explore gorgeous Germany, the cool Netherlands and of course history-rich Turkey, follow me and let’s explore them together!

A day in series: Hagen!

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