Executioner’s tour – walking tour with the executioner through Landshut

The Executioner’s tour in Landshut offers a unique glimpse into the city’s often grim history through an engaging, 90-minute walk with a real executioner. Priced at $227 per group (up to 20 people), this private experience provides an in-depth look at Landshut’s past, from medieval justice to 20th-century crimes. The tour starts under Martin’s Tower in the old town and concludes back at the same meeting point, making it a convenient and compact exploration.

This tour is ideal for those interested in historical crime, punishment, and local legends, especially since it features visits to historically significant sites such as the former execution site, a crime scene from a 20th-century murder, and the home of Landshut’s last witch. With live German narration, the guide brings these dark stories vividly to life, though non-German speakers should consider the language aspect. Accessibility for wheelchairs is noted, and the experience is designed as a private group, allowing for a personalized storytelling approach.

Key Points

• Private walking tour led by a guide and an authentic executioner through Landshut
• Duration of 1.5 hours, starting and ending in the old town near Martin’s Tower
• Visit to historic sites including the old execution site, a 20th-century crime scene, and the last witch’s home
• Learn about the evolution of punishment from ancient to modern times
• German-language guide, with wheelchair accessibility
• Suitable for groups up to 20 people; children under 12 are not recommended

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Exploring Landshut’s Historic Execution Site

The tour begins at the former execution site of Landshut, a place that once hosted justice for centuries. Standing at this significant location, the guide discusses the harsh realities of medieval punishment and how justice was administered in past centuries. Knowing the historical context deepens understanding of how Landshut’s justice system evolved over time.

This site serves as a stark reminder of a different era and offers a tangible connection to the city’s darker past. The site itself is quiet now, but its history remains compelling, especially when hearing stories of the criminals and punishments carried out there.

Visiting the Crime Scene of a 20th-Century Double Murder

Midway through the walk, the route leads to a location associated with a double murder from 1922. Here, the guide recounts the details of a tragic crime that shocked Landshut residents at the time. The site bears witness to a dark chapter of the city’s more recent history, and the story is brought to life through anecdotes about the crime and its aftermath.

This stop gives a tangible sense of how crime impacted the community and adds a modern layer to the overall narrative of justice and punishment in Landshut.

The Last Witch’s Home in Landshut

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the birthplace of Veronika Zerritsch, who was the last witch to be burned in Landshut. This painful chapter in history reflects the city’s involvement in witch hunts and the tragic fate of those accused of witchcraft.

The guide shares the story of Veronika Zerritsch and the events surrounding her execution, providing insight into the witch trials that swept through Bavaria. Standing at her former home, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the lasting impact of these historical persecutions.

The Evolution of Punishment from Medieval to Modern Times

Throughout the 90-minute walk, the guide offers insights into how punishment methods changed over the centuries. From medieval executions to modern judicial procedures, the narration highlights key developments in criminal justice.

Topics include stories about criminals, murderers, and swindlers—with anecdotes that make history engaging without glorifying violence. The tour paints a comprehensive picture of societal shifts in how justice was administered, making it both educational and captivating.

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The Guide and Tour Logistics

The guide leading this tour is a German speaker, who shares stories with a lively and engaging style. The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience, and wheelchair accessibility is confirmed, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs. Guests meet directly under Martin’s Tower, a central landmark in Landshut’s old town, and the tour ends at the same location, simplifying logistics.

Booking is flexible with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, offering a convenient way to plan your Landshut visit.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Landshut Experiences

Compared to other guided tours like the Night Watchman Tour or Medieval Tour, this experience emphasizes the darker aspects of Landshut’s history, specifically related to justice and punishment. The presence of an authentic executioner guide adds authenticity and a visceral element not typically found in conventional city tours.

Plus, the focus on specific sites such as the execution site, the crime scene, and the last witch’s home provides a thematic journey through Landshut’s more somber history, appealing to those intrigued by crime, punishment, and historical legends.

Practical Information for Visitors

The tour is 1.5 hours long and features German narration. It is not suitable for children under 12 years, given the mature themes and stories. The group size is limited to 20 people, ensuring a more intimate experience. The price of $227 covers the entire group, making it an accessible option for families or small groups interested in local history with a twist.

While the experience is straightforward in terms of logistics, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor walking through Landshut’s historic streets and sites.

The Unique Appeal of Landshut’s Darker History

This Executioner’s tour in Landshut invites history enthusiasts to explore the city’s past from a different perspective. It blends historical facts, local legends, and crime stories with the tangible atmosphere of medieval and early modern justice. The inclusion of actual sites and the presence of an executioner guide give it an authentic and slightly eerie charm.

While it’s a brief experience, its depth and focus make it a strong choice for those interested in moral history, justice, and Bavaria’s darker episodes. For travelers seeking a private, storytelling-driven tour with a focus on Landshut’s criminal justice past, this walk offers a memorable, educational, and engaging journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years due to mature themes related to crime and punishment.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in German. Guests should have some understanding of the language, or arrange for translation if needed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point directly under Martin’s Tower in Landshut’s old town, providing easy access and convenient logistics.

What makes this tour different from other Landshut tours?
This experience stands out because it features a real executioner as a guide, visits significant sites like the former execution site, crime scene, and last witch’s home, and focuses specifically on Landshut’s justice and crime history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes walking through the historic streets of Landshut.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that most visitors can participate comfortably.

This Executioner’s tour in Landshut offers a compelling look into the city’s judicial past, blending history, storytelling, and site visits into a memorable experience. It’s perfect for those interested in Bavaria’s darker episodes and authentic local legends.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby