Fans of spelunking, history, and sports of all kinds will find something to enjoy in Iserlohn. It is located near the Ruhr River in the Sauerland region in western Germany.
During the Middle Ages, the city was well known for its production of armor and other light metal products including needles. The town has restored many of the original factory buildings and you can tour historical displays there. The Needle Museum provides a one-of-a-kind look at the history of needle making. You might also enjoy seeing the Hair Pin Factory and the Brass Foundry.
St. Pankratius Church, which dates from the 11th century, is still in use, as is the Oberste Stadtkirche, which was built around 1350. The latter features a gothic winged altar, a true architectural novelty.
The city also boasts a well-preserved section of the city wall, which dates back to medieval times, and many half-timbered houses from the same period.
If you like to be active during your travels, you will surely find a recreational opportunity to your liking in Iserlohn. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through beautiful hilly woodlands and walk around scenic lakes. There are also facilities for skating, gymnastics, handball, gliding, tennis, mini-golf, riding, and many other sporting activities. You can climb to the top of the Danzturm (a tower), which is on a hill overlooking the city, and enjoy panoramic views of the whole area.
Iserlohn hosts the International Guitar Symposium every year, which attracts musicians from around the world. There are dozens of renowned teachers holding classes for hundreds of talented guitarists. They perform concerts for the public and are noted for their exuberant parties in the evenings.
Dechenhöhle, one of Germany’s most impressive caves, is located in the area. It was discovered in 1868 by workers excavating for a railroad construction project. It contains beautiful limestone formations with romantic names like “The Organ” or “Emperor’s Hall.”
Cave operators offer a variety of special tours such as a child’s birthday party, a treasure hunt, and a Christmas tour with holiday lights and decorations during December. The museum near the cave has fascinating exhibits of prehistoric skeletons and a life-size model of a cave bear. :-)
Iserlohn offers walking tours through its historic sections and also provides bus tours through the surrounding countryside. You are sure to find something to pique your interest in this beautiful city.
