All tours in Paderborn

Paderborn

Springs of Power: The Red Thread of Paderborn

2.1 km95 min7 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Dive into the deep waters of history where a single natural phenomenon birthed an empire. On this immersive journey through Paderborn, you will uncover the hidden alliance between imperial might and religious ambition. From the bubbling springs that drew Charlemagne, to the acoustic marvels of Byzantine craftsmen, and the dazzling propaganda of the Counter-Reformation, discover how water, stone, and faith were weaponized to create a 'New Jerusalem' in the heart of Germany.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Paderquellgebiet

The natural springs that produce thousands of liters of water per second, serving as the foundational reason for the city's existence.

Paderquellgebiet

Pic by Dguendel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

0.46 km • 7 min
2

STOP 2

Museum in der Kaiserpfalz

The excavated ruins of two distinct imperial palaces, revealing the architectural ambitions of Charlemagne and Bishop Meinwerk.

Museum in der Kaiserpfalz

Pic by Zefram on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)

0.02 km • 0 min
3

STOP 3

Bartholomäuskapelle

The oldest hall church north of the Alps, built by Byzantine craftsmen, renowned for its unique architecture and incredible acoustics.

Bartholomäuskapelle

Pic by Zefram on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)

0.01 km • 0 min
4

STOP 4

Paderborner Dom

The spiritual heart of Paderborn, featuring a massive Gothic nave and a crypt housing the relics of St. Liborius.

Paderborner Dom

Pic by A.Savin on Wikimedia Commons (FAL)

0.58 km • 9 min
5

STOP 5

Marktkirche St. Franz Xaver

A stunning Baroque Jesuit church that served as the architectural spearhead of the Counter-Reformation in Paderborn.

Marktkirche St. Franz Xaver

Pic by ludger1961 on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.30 km • 5 min
6

STOP 6

Gymnasium Theodorianum

One of Germany's oldest schools, founded by the Jesuits to shape the intellectual landscape of the Counter-Reformation.

0.76 km • 12 min
7

END

Busdorfkirche

An 11th-century church modeled after the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, representing the ultimate cosmic ambition of Paderborn's bishops.

Busdorfkirche

Pic by Zefram on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0 de)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and curious explorers fascinated by the intersection of religion, politics, and urban development.
  • Best time Daytime, preferably mid-morning when the light hits the cathedral's stained glass and the springs are quiet.
  • Footwear Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you will navigate cobblestones and ancient crypts.
  • Acoustics Bring a quiet voice for the Bartholomäuskapelle to truly experience its 1,000-year-old acoustic magic.
  • Weather The springs are beautiful but can be chilly and damp; a light jacket is recommended even in summer.
  • Respectful Attire As we enter several active places of worship, please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Pacing Take your time in the Cathedral crypt. It is a space meant for slow, quiet reflection.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Max Krämer
Audio sample
0:000:00

Max Krämer

  • History & Memory
  • Northern Germany

Historian with a passion for urban places of remembrance. Has worked in archives and museums for years; shows the traces of revolutions, monuments, and colonial pasts in today's streets.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Discover more tours in Paderborn

Experience Paderborn from more surprising perspectives.

See more tours in Paderborn
Now only €3.99 incl. VAT