Archeological evidence indicates that Nottuln settled by people of the late Middle Stone Age, perhaps as early as 4000 B.C..
Nottuln is now a prime example of Baroque architecture with many lovely buildings built in the Baroque style. Many of the buildings were designed by the well-known Baroque architect Johann Conrad Schlaun.
The large buildings are grouped around a square in front of the former convent of St. Martin’s church. This convent was the first convent in the Westphalia area. Many of the Baroque buildings are massive, built of sandstone from local quarries. The Curia of the Reck, formerly part of the convent, is now the center of municipal life.
Amtmannei House is the architectural cornerstone of the town and is now its cultural center. The concerts that take place here have a national and international reputation.
The Cathedral of St. Martin, originally built in the 15th century, was damaged by fire in 1748. Johann Conrad Schlaun repaired it, adding a Gothic roof. In November the annual St. Martin’s Fair is held here. This Fair has been a part of Nottuln life since 1622.
In the Kirkplatz (Church Square) you can visit the oldest indigo cloth printing shop still in existence. They still use an old Westphalian technique using carved wooden blocks to print on cotton or linen fabric using indigo dye.
On top of the nearby forested hills is a 30 m high observation tower built at the turn of the 20th century. The Longinusturm offers a panoramic view although it now serves other purposes.
In 1952, the tower was the site of the first television broadcast in the area. Because the building had no electricity, the television was powered by a car battery!
By the way, Nottuln is one of the small town you will pass through on the famous 100 Castles Route, a popular bicycle tour visiting numerous castles and palaces.