Soest, a charming town in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, is located about 60 kilometers east of Dortmund and 50 kilometers west of Paderborn. Nestled in the vast landscapes of the Soester Börde, it is characterized by fertile soil and idyllic surroundings. Due to its central location, both the Ruhr area and the Sauerland are quickly accessible.
Soest – An undiscovered travel destination in Germany
The nearby Möhnesee offers additional scenic attractions and recreational opportunities. Soest is well connected to the German A44 motorway and several federal highways, making access to the city easy. With its gently rolling fields and magnificent forests, the region around Soest is perfect for nature lovers.
This geographical diversity makes Soest an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding areas. Surrounded by historic towns and cultural highlights, Soest offers a unique mix of nature and history.
History of the city of Soest
The origins of the city of Soest date back to the time of the Saxons in the early Middle Ages. As early as the 8th century, Soest was mentioned as an important settlement in what was then Saxony. In the 10th century, Soest developed into an important trading center and was granted city rights in 1120, which underlined its importance.
In the High Middle Ages, Soest was a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful alliance of North German merchants that dominated trade in the Baltic region. This membership brought prosperity and cultural growth. Despite the challenges posed by the Thirty Years' War and the Soest Feud in the 15th century, the city retained its importance.
Today, Soest is a city that lovingly maintains its rich history while integrating modern developments. The well-preserved medieval city center and numerous historic buildings bear witness to its long and significant past.
Top sights
Osthofentor
The Osthofentor is one of the most impressive city gates and one of the most important landmarks in Soest. It was built in the 17th century and is one of the few remaining city gates of the medieval city fortifications. The mighty walls and tower offer an imposing sight and testify to the strategic importance of the gate in times gone by. The Osthofentor also houses a small museum that offers interesting facts about the history of the city gate and military technology. Regular tours allow a look behind the scenes and at the historic defense systems. The view of the city and the surrounding area from above is breathtaking. Especially at Christmas time, the gate is festively illuminated and is the focus of numerous events. It is a popular meeting place and an excellent starting point for exploring the old town.
Coloring page Osthofentor Soest
St. Patrokli Cathedral
The imposing Romanesque cathedral, named after the patron saint Patroclus, dates back to the 10th century. It impresses with its monumental architecture and the impressive crypt, which is one of the oldest in the West. The mighty double-tower façade gives the building a majestic appearance. Inside the church, valuable works of art and medieval prayer scripts can be viewed. The cathedral treasury with its extensive collection of liturgical equipment is particularly fascinating. The cathedral's charisma attracts thousands of visitors every year and makes it a central religious and tourist destination. Regular services and concerts testify to the liveliness of the community. A climb up the south tower rewards you with a wonderful view over the old town.
Meadow Church
The Gothic Wiesenkirche, officially called St. Maria zur Wiese, was built in the 14th century. Its delicate architecture and magnificent rose window are considered masterpieces of Gothic architecture. The impressive sandstone double-tower façade is particularly striking. The church houses numerous art treasures, including valuable stained glass and sculptures. The very bright, light-flooded interior design promotes an atmosphere of grandeur and peace. Restorations have preserved the nave and the works of art to this day. Regular cultural events also make the Wiesenkirche a lively part of the city community. A walk through the surrounding park rounds off the visit perfectly.
Old town
A walk through the old town of Soest is like a journey into the past. The well-preserved half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets tell stories from times gone by. Numerous small shops, cozy cafes and restaurants invite you to linger. Special highlights are the historic city gates, such as the Osthofentor and the Jakobitor. The city wall, parts of which are still well preserved, also offers picturesque walking paths. Several squares and fountains, including the market square, are popular meeting places for locals and tourists. Museums worth seeing, such as the Burghofmuseum, provide insights into local history. The old town of Soest is a living testimony to medieval town planning and enchants with its authentic charm.
Medieval ramparts
The medieval ramparts of the city of Soest have been largely well preserved, which offers a fascinating insight into the historical architecture. Visitors today have the unique opportunity to walk both in the moats in front of the walls and on the old ramparts themselves. These walks not only offer a journey into the past, but also wonderful views of the city and its surroundings. The well-kept moats and imposing walls are testament to the city's former defensive strength and invite you to experience Soest's history up close.
Green sandstone buildings
Soest is known for its unique green sandstone buildings, which give the city a distinctive character. This construction method using the regionally typical green sandstone makes the buildings shimmer green in the sunlight. The medieval churches and town houses in particular use this stone and shape the cityscape. An outstanding example is the St. Petri Church, which offers a very special atmosphere with its green stone. The city wall and numerous towers are also made of this distinctive material. The care and preservation of the green sandstone buildings are important concerns of the city in order to preserve the historical appearance. Visitors can learn more about the meaning and use of green sandstone on city tours. This architectural feature makes Soest a unique travel destination in Germany.
Castle Courtyard Museum
The Burghof Museum is located in a former noble residence from the 13th century. It offers a comprehensive insight into the history of the city and the lives of the citizens of Soest. The exhibition includes historical furniture, works of art and everyday objects from various eras. The collection of medieval weapons and armor is particularly worth seeing. Regular special exhibitions and events enrich the museum's offerings. The building itself is an impressive example of regional architecture and offers an authentic ambience. Guided tours and educational programs also make the museum attractive for school classes and families. The adjacent garden invites you to take a relaxing stroll after the tour.
Soest Art Gallery
The Soest Art Gallery is an important place for contemporary art and culture in the city. The gallery shows works by regional and international artists from various art forms, from painting and sculpture to photography and installations. Regular special exhibitions and art events offer a diverse range of artistic impressions. The modern architecture of the building forms a fascinating contrast to the historical surroundings of the city. Workshops and artist talks invite visitors to actively engage with art. The outdoor sculpture garden complements the indoor exhibitions in an exciting way.
All Saints Fair
The All Saints Fair is an absolute highlight in the events calendar of the city of Soest and is considered the largest old town fair in Europe. Every year at the beginning of November, the city center is transformed into a huge fairground with carousels, stalls and attractions. The fair attracts visitors from near and far and offers varied entertainment for young and old.
From exciting rides to culinary specialties and musical performances - the All Saints Fair has something to offer everyone. A particular highlight is the traditional horse market, which has been part of the fair for many years. The festively decorated town and the special atmosphere make the visit an unforgettable experience.
Celebrations of the Soest Feud
Further information about the city, current festivals and the fair program with directions can be found on the Website of the city of Soest.
The unique combination of history, culture, nature and events makes Soest a fascinating travel destination that is worth discovering.