Krefeld is a city steeped in history and is known for its textile industry, but it also offers a unique combination of historical sites, culture and nature. One of the city’s main attractions is the charming Burg Linn fortress, which dates back to the 12th century. Inside, there is a museum worth visiting, and you can also admire the beautiful views from the castle tower.
Of particular interest is the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum, an art museum that showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and classical art, including works by masters such as Pablo Picasso and Wassily Kandinsky.
A popular attraction is the Krefeld Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world. Another natural treasure of Krefeld is its botanical garden. With its variety of plants and flowers, this peaceful oasis offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. And the Theater Krefeld und Mönchengladbach is a renowned performing arts venue, hosting a wide range of productions, including plays, opera and ballet.
Location
Krefeld is a small city located in the western part of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany. It lies near the border with the Netherlands.
Linn Palace in Krefeld – Burg Linn Fortress
The former country castle belonging to the Electorate of Cologne has its origins around 1200. It was badly damaged during the Spanish Civil War of 1704.
The beautiful water castle is well preserved and includes a bailey, hunting lodge and tithe barn. In the accompanying Landscape Museum it is possible to view excavation finds from the days of Roman rule in the 5th century and the time of the Frankish princes.
Museum Burg Linn
The archaeological museum at Burg Linn Fortress displays collections from 6,000 Roman and early medieval graves discovered at Gelduba, including glass artifacts and the burial site of a Frankish prince. It also houses artifacts from the Battle of Gelduba in 69 AD and presents a detailed model of the landscape of the Roman fortress of Gelduba in 200 AD.
Krefeld Art Museums
The Krefeld Art Museums are dedicated primarily to modern and contemporary art in three buildings. The Krefeld museums include three individual buildings: the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum in the city center, opened in 1987, and the Bauhaus-style villas Haus Lange and Haus Esters. The close connection between art, architecture, and design is particularly striking in Krefeld.
Stadtpalais (Standesamt)
The former Dresdner Bank building forms the elegant surroundings of today’s registry office. The entrance portal has a very elegant design, with columns on both sides and a coat of arms style.
The Stadtpalais is the seat of the Krefeld registry office. Opposite the Dionysius Church is the wedding hall, where couples can get married. Weddings take place on Monday and Friday mornings.
Museums Haus Lange Haus Esters
The two country houses Haus Esters and Haus Lange were erected in 1927–1928 by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the leading representatives of New Architecture.
Originally planned as private homes for the families of two friends active in Krefeld’s silk industry, Hermann Lange and Dr. Josef Esters, they are now venues for the temporary exhibitions of the Kunstmuseen Krefeld.
Krefeld Zoo
Krefeld Zoo is famous for its large and diverse collection of animals. It is worth going to this Zoo with the whole family. Among the inhabitants of the garden you can meet animals such as tigers, camels, elephants, monkeys and many other species. The animals live in conditions similar to natural ones. Thanks to this, visiting the zoo is very relaxing.
