A fascinating and somewhat macabre journey through Landshut’s history, led by an authentic executioner, promises a 90-minute walk into the city’s darker past. For $227 per group (up to 20 people), you’ll visit sites connected to medieval punishments, 20th-century crimes, and even the last witch to be burned in Landshut. The tour is led by Georg Zollitsch, a live German-speaking guide, and is suitable for private groups, making it a personalized and immersive experience.
What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic storytelling—you won’t just hear dry history; you’ll get vivid anecdotes about criminals, murders, and punishments that shaped the city. Plus, the visit to the former execution site and the house of Landshut’s last witch offers a tangible connection to the city’s past, making history feel alive and immediate.
A consideration to keep in mind is the length and language of the tour: since it’s conducted in German, non-German speakers might miss out on some details unless they understand the language or have a guide who can translate. Also, with a price of over two hundred dollars, this tour might seem steep for some, but its exclusivity and focus on authentic local stories add value that many history buffs will appreciate.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy exploring offbeat histories, appreciate storytelling with a dark twist, and want a private, intimate look at a Bavarian city’s more shadowy side. It’s ideal for those with a curious mind and a taste for the unusual.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Led by a live German-speaking guide, offering genuine local storytelling.
- Historical Depth: Covers punishment methods from medieval times to modern crimes.
- Unique Sites: Includes visits to a former execution site, a 20th-century crime scene, and the last witch’s house.
- Private Group: Perfect for personalized attention, with a maximum of 20 participants.
- Duration & Accessibility: Lasts 1.5 hours; wheelchair accessible, but limited for children under 12.
- Value for Enthusiasts: A well-rounded, immersive look into Landshut’s darker history.
An In-Depth Look at the Executioner’s Tour in Landshut
When considering a walking tour that unearths the darker corners of Landshut’s history, the Executioner’s Tour offers a compelling blend of fact, storytelling, and local legend. It’s not your typical sightseeing jaunt; it’s a journey into the city’s judicial past, told through the eyes of a guide who brings a particular flavor to the experience.
Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins directly under Martin’s Tower in the old town, a central and recognizable landmark that anchors your journey into the past. Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll follow a route that takes in key sites associated with landshut’s dark history—an optimal length that balances depth with comfort, especially on a warm day or if you’re sightseeing with children (though note the minimum age requirement of 12).
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Two specific aspects of this experience really shine. First, the presence of the guide as a character—you’re not just observing history from a brochure or a museum display. Georg Zollitsch, the experience provider, leads with a storytelling style that brings the tales of criminals, executioners, and historical crimes vividly to life. His anecdotes make you’ll find yourself transported to a different era, feeling the weight of justice, fear, and superstition.
Second, the visit to historically significant sites like the site of past executions and the home of the last witch burned in Landshut offers a visceral connection to history. These aren’t just landmarks; they’re stories waiting to be told, with the scars and memories still palpable.
What You’ll See and Hear
The tour’s narrative travels through time, highlighting how punishment and justice evolved from antiquity to the modern era. You’ll hear about the most famous executioner in Germany, who carried out his first executions in Landshut, and about a double murder in 1922 that still echoes in local memory. The story of Veronika Zerritsch, the last woman burned as a witch in Landshut, will leave a lasting impression, especially since her house is part of the route.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity and Local Flavor
The tour’s strength is its authenticity—the stories are rooted in real events, and the guide provides detailed accounts that are both chilling and fascinating. As one reviewer noted, “The way the guide described the double murder was gripping,” showing how well the narrative is delivered. Travelers will find the mix of medieval justice, 20th-century crimes, and witch hunts offers a comprehensive look at how Landshut’s darker history has shaped its identity.
Practical Considerations
At €227 for a private group, the tour is a premium experience, but it’s justified by the personalized attention and detailed storytelling. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. However, since the tour is in German, non-German speakers should consider whether they’ll need a translator or understand the language beforehand.
Who It’s Best For
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, dark tourism fans, or those interested in local legends. It offers a different perspective from more typical sightseeing tours, focusing on the less-glamorous, more sobering aspects of history. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy storytelling, local legends, and a deep dive into the city’s judicial past.
Why Choose This Tour?
The Executioner’s Tour offers more than just a walk—it’s an engaging history lesson told with flair. The personal touch of a guide who embodies the stories makes the past feel immediate. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of Landshut’s history—both its proud moments and its darker chapters.
For travelers who want an intimate, authentic experience that reveals the city’s hidden stories, this tour is a standout option. It’s a chance to see Landshut through a different lens—one that reveals the complexity, tension, and sometimes gruesome realities of its past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 12, likely due to the dark themes and mature content discussed during the walk.
In what language is the tour conducted?
The tour is conducted in German, so non-German speakers might need a translation or to brush up on their language skills for full enjoyment.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and engaging activity without being overly exhausting.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at the same point: directly under Martin’s Tower, in the heart of Landshut’s old town.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour with a live guide. Tips are not included, but are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which is important for visitors with mobility needs.
How many people can join the tour?
The tour is private, accommodating up to 20 people, ensuring an intimate experience.
What makes this tour different from other Landshut tours?
Instead of typical sightseeing, it focuses on dark history and real crime stories, providing a more visceral understanding of Landshut’s past.
What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and an umbrella if rain is forecast. Bring curiosity and an open mind for the stories that await.
In summary, the Executioner’s Tour in Landshut offers a unique, story-driven peek into the city’s more ominous history. It’s a well-paced, intimate experience that appeals especially to those interested in true crime, medieval punishments, and local legends. While the price may seem steep, the depth of storytelling and authentic sites visited make it a worthwhile choice for history buffs seeking something beyond the usual sightseeing. For travelers who enjoy stories with a dark twist and a sense of history’s raw edges, this tour provides a memorable, spine-tingling encounter with Landshut’s past.
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