Located at the point where the Weser River meets the Mittelland Canal, the city of Minden is an important inland shipping center. It is more than 1200 years old and dates back to the days of Charlemagne.
If you visit here today, you will want to stroll down the cobblestone streets that transport you back to the Middle Ages. You can walk among many lovingly tended half timbered houses that will allow you to feel like a citizen of the past.
Construction of the Cathedral Dom was begun in the 11th century and it is still a favorite site for visitors of today. It is a fine example of an Early Gothic hall church with an Early Romanesque West Wing and Late Romanesque choir loft and transept.
The famous Minden Cross of 1070 is displayed in the cathedral treasury. The building sustained some damage during the 2nd World War, but has been painstakingly restored and is well worth a visit.
Don’t miss seeing the Town Hall a short distance from the cathedral. It boasts the oldest city hall portico in the region of Westphalia. As you are walking you will enjoy several commercial areas with open air markets and a wide array of shops.
The countryside around Minden in the valley of the Weser River is beautiful and lends itself to well marked hiking and biking tours. There are many locations that are ideal for a picnic or day trip that will leave you relaxed and refreshed. You can also ride several different tour boats on the river or canal and see more of the area. A vintage steam train takes you on a scenic and historic ride.
If you are traveling with children, you will want to be sure to visit Potter Park. This is an amusement area with a roller coaster, water rides and Ferris wheels. There are also more than 130 educational displays at the Science Center there, that will enchant youngsters and their parents, as well.
Minden prides itself on presenting a variety of musical and cultural events every year. You may be able to attend a chamber music concert, a punk rock show, a jazz festival, or just about any other kind of performance you can think of. There is an energetic theater group in the city and an active literary and lecture circuit, too.
And if you’re after some relaxation, there are many world class restaurants and indoor as well as outdoor venues that will provide first-class recreation for you.
