Schwalenberg - Where the water flows uphill

Gallery (6)

Schwalenberg for friends of fairy tales

"THE WATER WAS DUG BY THE PAIR OF MEN WHO WERE THEN FREED OF THEIR CHAINS IN GRAY EARLY DAYS OF YORE THE MEN ARE DEAD THE WATER NEVER DIES JUMPS DAILY FROM THE HILLS TODAY JUST LIKE IN GRAY EARLY DAYS OF YORE" – was it so simple, when they attempted to supply the settlement high up on the mountain with water?

 But no. The source appeared to lie below the town of Schwalenberg. How could the town also be provided with water ?

Perhaps monks of the Cistercian Order were consulted? With a simple dipstick measurement, they could determine that the source was slightly higher than the town?

However, the question remained how the deep valley of the Lippe brook could be bridged? Did the source also offer enough of a gradient?

Because of the unique topography of the Burgberg and the reflection of the sunlight, even today, visitors have the suspicion that water in Schwalenberg can run uphill.

A special guided city tour once again recounts the interesting history of the origin of the municipal water supply. The interactive circular tour "Burgberg and municipal water" with video explanations and path descriptions invites the whole family to an experience tour (2.2 km).

Historical Tidbits 

Where painters feel at home

At the beginning of the last century, painters were inspired by the scenery, the idyllic setting of the town, and the special lighting conditions. The nickname "painter's city" arose from repeated stays in the "Summer freshness", and were often accompanied by art students. To this day, the life of the painters' colony in Schwalenberg is celebrated. From May to October, various galleries display different exhibitions. It is actually surprising that Emil Grimm did not visit this picturesque place as a painter.

For holiday tourists and day visitors

The location on the edge of the Teutoburger Wald/Eggegebirge and the Weserbergland offers the visitor numerous active excursion possibilities.

A hike to the viewing point of Grafenblick (between castle and town water) with a wonderful view to the Teutoburger Forest/Eggegebirge (Hermann monument). The nearby vantage point "Malereich" ("painterly") with magnificent views is still a popular place for painters and artists.

On closer inspection, a walk along the city's waterway makes the trees appear like so many trolls, which makes a fascinating and fairytale impression on children, especially in autumn. This is why this hike is especially recommended for families.

"Listen people and let me tell you …" A gruesome and mysterious night watchman's walk by lantern light through the winding alleys of Schwalenberg should not be missed, as well as a guided tour of the town in traditional Schwalenberg costume or a visit to the galleries.

Your contact in Schwalenberg