Nestled in an idyllic forest and meadow landscape, the LWL open-air museum in Hagen offers not only the history of craftsmanship and technology, but also space for relaxation. In historic half-timbered houses and workshops, visitors can immerse themselves in the past of South Westphalia and find a cozy spot for a picnic on the banks of the Mäckinger Bach stream after their tour.
Mettwurst sausage and ham from their own smokehouse. Freshly baked bread from the historic hilltop oven. Home-made ropes and cigars. Hardly any visitor leaves the Hagen Open-Air Museum empty-handed. Since the museum was opened in the valley of the Mäckinger Bach almost 50 years ago, history has not only been documented here - but above all lived. Visitors are there live when the heavy scythe hammer falls onto the anvil in the forge. They look over the barber's shoulder as he applies the old razor, or simply follow the smell of freshly roasted coffee.
Create your own paper
In 16 historical workshops, which are in operation every day, craftsmen and women use historical machines to demonstrate how and with what technology people in Westphalia and Lippe worked a good 200 years ago. During free guided tours and exciting hands-on activities, visitors can also lend a hand and, for example, make their own paper or go on a time travel through the village with a camera.
This is sure to result in many a landscape photograph. The Mäckinger stream flows tranquilly through the middle of the valley in the southern Ruhr area, surrounded by woods and meadows that invite you to take a walk or have a picnic when the weather is nice. And if it does rain, it's worth taking a look at the extensive permanent exhibition - and perhaps deepening your newly acquired knowledge a little.
