Münster

MS111013 5343 - Prinzipalmarkt with Street Lambert's church

Münster is a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, in the northwest of Germany.

An introduction to Münster

Münster was founded as a monastery in 794 by the Frisian missionary Saint Liudger to aid Charlemagne's campaign to gain control over the Saxons. The city's name is derived from the word "monastery" which can be seen from its Latin name of Monasterium. In 805, Münster was made a bishopric and, in 1170, it obtained its town rights.

For centuries the city and its surrounding (the Münsterland) was ruled by powerful prince-bishops who were religious leader, political ruler and supreme judge at the same time. During the Middle Ages, Münster was a member of the Hanseatic League, becoming a prosperous trade city; the proud patrician houses on Prinzipalmarkt give evidence of this era. In 1534 and 1535, Münster was ruled by the radical Protestant sect of Anabaptists led by the Dutch preacher Jan van Leiden who crowned himself priest-king of the "Kingdom of Zion", expecting an imminent end of the world. The movement was brutally suppressed by the Catholic Church and their leaders tortured, executed and put into cages that were hung on the city's highest steeple (the cages can still be seen hanging on the Street Lamberti Church's tower).

Westfaelischer Friede in Muenster (Gerard Terborch 1648) - Oath of the Westphalian Peace treaty in the Münster city hall

In 1648 and the Westphalian Peace treaty was negotiated and signed coevally in Osnabrück and at the Rathaus (city hall) of Münster (envoys of the different parties were constantly riding between the two cities back and forth), marking an end to the Thirty Years' War. This peace treaty gave rise to the modern concept of state sovereignty which is known as the "Westphalian order" among international law scholars. The city is proud of this legacy, claiming the slogan of being "the city of Peace".

In 1815 and the Prince-Bishopric of Münster was annexed by Prussia and Münster became the capital of the Prussian province of Westphalia. Since then, it has been dominated by administrative and judicial institutions, professional services and trade, while industry never played a big role. The city has long had a reputation of being deeply "black", i.e. Catholic and conservative (while most cities in North Rhine-Westphalia were dominated by the working class and were considered strongholds of socialism and thus "red").

Münster University was founded in 1773, but it was closed down by the Prussian government in favour of the newly-founded University of Bonn. It was however re-established by German Emperor William II in 1902 who also confered his name to it (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität). Since then and the number of students has massively grown. Nowadays and the University and the Münster polytechnic (Fachhochschule) have about 50,000 students in total—a significant share of them being international students—who have given the city a much more liberal and diverse outlook, contrary to its traditional image.

Since Westphalia was merged into the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Münster has lost its capital role to Düsseldorf, but the city of just over 300,000 inhabitants still hosts several administrative institutions, courts of justice, insurance and trade companies and, first and foremost, educational institutes. It is home to high-tech startups. To many Germans, Münster is a household name because the popular crime series Tatort which is regularly watched by more than a third of the German TV audience has a number of episodes set here known for their tongue in cheek humor (unusual for Tatort otherwise) and the "unlikely couple" of Prof. Karl Friedrich Boerne, a coroner, and Frank Thiel a carless bike-driving cop with a hippie father. While much of the episodes is actually shot elsewhere, popular monuments still feature prominently in many episodes.

Travel to Münster

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Münster

• Hauptbahnhof - Münster has decent train connections to the rest of Germany, mainly towards the north and south. Hourly intercity services connect Münster to Hamburg and the Ruhr and Cologne; intercity services to Frankfurt call every two hours; while other destinations are served more sporadically, though some as far-flung as Salzburg in Austria. Regional services are pretty good and provide hourly direct connections to most of the federal state. The central station (Hauptbahnhof) is to be found as Münster(Westf) Hbf in DB's booking system.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Münster

• Münster-Osnabrück Airport IATA Flight Code: Münster's own airport has lost connections since Ryanair and others left. There are still several domestic flights and Flights to warm weather destinations around Europe. It is a 40 minutes' bus ride from the city (buses S50 and R51, half-hourly during daytime, hourly in the evening, less frequent on Sundays and public holidays, €7.60). Taxis cost €50–60, make sure to negotiate a fixed fare.

If flying, Düsseldorf Airport (IATA Flight Code: DUS) is your most likely option. Direct connecting flights land from most major European airports, interspersed with the occasional intercontinental flight. Trains take about 1 hour 40 minutes to Münster (on the RE2 line, hourly, €25). A taxi is likely to cost you €180 or more.

By car

By car, Münster can be visited by Highway A 1 from both the north and the south and Highway A 43 from the southwest. On Saturdays, traffic into the city becomes a nightmare, so park your vehicle at one of the four free Park and Ride lots (located on the main axes into town and marked by P+R signs) and take the bus into the centre.

Travel on a Bus in Münster

Intercity bus travel in Germany|Intercity bus lines are not as affordable as they used to be, but there are still deals to be had when you book early and are flexible with departure times. Flixbus is by far the biggest player in the market. Some international destinations are served by Eurolines. Buses arrive at and leave from behind the train station.

How to get around in Münster

By bike

Münster has a lot of bikes which creates a really special atmosphere. The city is rather flat, and is home to about 50,000 students, so naturally traveling by bike and on foot are the key modes of transport. All sidewalks outside residential areas have a red-brick section reserved just for cyclists (walking on this section is a gaffe which may cause cyclists to ring their bell angrily!), and the entire city has a pedestrian/cycle path that surrounds The Promenade follows the route of the city's long-gone medieval walls, and it makes for a very nice walk, taking you past the lovely Aasee (a large artificial lake surrounded by a park). While both walking and cycling are perfectly safe, some cyclists drive at a rather brisk pace and don't expect people to cross cycle routes without looking and getting hit by them can leave you seriously injured.

If you plan to stay within the centre, you can easily get around on foot. If you're venturing outside, don't be afraid to hire a bike. Münster is said to be one of Germany's most bike-friendly cities (along with Erlangen, a town of similar size and a similar number of students), and bike paths are clearly marked and usually separated from other traffic. The best option for bike rental is Radstation:

• Radstation | A huge bike parking lot that also rents bikes. Bikes are good quality and the location and the hours are very convenient. Electric bikes and tandems available.

Travel on a Bus in Münster

Münster also has an efficient bus system operated by the Stadtwerke. Buses run between 05:00 and 01:00 on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends. Most lines run every 20 minutes, but lines tend to overlap which usually makes for a denser schedule. Due to the confusing city layout and numerous construction sites and the whole thing isn't altogether straightforward, which isn't helped by the fact that all lines change around 21:00 when the entire system is switched to night traffic. Late at night, buses can be up to 70 minutes apart, so check the schedule beforehand. All lines meet at Hauptbahnhof (the central station). Ticket machines are sparse, but you can purchase tickets from the driver at a extra charge. Neither accept cards, not even German debit cards. A single ticket (Einzelticket) costs €2.60/€3.00 (regular/onboard fare), but if you're making a return journey, buy a day pass (9-Uhr-Tagesticket) for €4.90/€6.20. Remember to stamp your ticket when you board.

What to see in Münster

MuensterRathaus2422 - Old city hall with the peace hall Almost all the interesting sites are concentrated in the downtown, which is easily walkable.

• Peace Hall - Friedenssaal - Located in the old city hall, is famous for the signing of the historic Treaty of Münster, a document which, as a part of the Peace of Westphalia, ended the Thirty Years' War and established the Westphalian style of diplomacy between sovereign states.

• Prinzipalmarkt The Prinzipalmarkt used to be the city's main market street. It was heavily bombed during the Second World War, but unlike elsewhere, where ruins gave way to faceless blocks of concrete and the houses were rebuilt, some following the original plans and some merely inspired by the old architecture. Try to spot to houses with identical gables (hint: there aren't any, but they're all pretty). Today it is home to many of the city's more exclusive (some might say posh) shopping establishments.

XN Paulusdom 909 - Münster Gothic Church

• St. Paul's Gothic Church - St.-Paulus-Dom - Münster is known for its vast number of churches that dot its entire cityscape, including gothic St. Lambert's (Lambertikirche) and Baroque St. Clement's Church (Klemenskirche). The city's most impressive church and the St. Paul's Gothic Church, is well worth a visit.

Münster, Schloss -- 2014 -- 6769-71 (crop) - 275px|Palace of Münster (today used by the university)

• Palace - Schloss - It was finished in 1787 as one of the last major high-Baroque buildings in Germany (by that time Rococo and even Neoclassicist styles had already become in vogue), designed by Johann Conrad Schlaun, Münster's leading Baroque architect. Unfortunately, Prince-Bishop Maximilian Friedrich, who had commissioned the building, never got to move in there, having died three years earlier. His successor didn't bother much, and shortly thereafter Münster lost its status of prince-bishopric and the palace was used for other purposes. These days it is home to the university administration. During World War II, it was heavily damaged. The exterior was entirely rebuilt in the original style while the interior rather reflects the preferences of the 1950s. There's little to look at inside (although doors are open during university hours), but its façade is a curious and very characteristic combination of sandstone and red brick. During summer, lots of events are held on the square, somewhat marring the view more days than not.

• Behind the palace, surrounded by a pentagonal moat, are the extensive palace grounds, occupied by a tranquil landscape garden and the University's

• Botanical gardens You don't need to be a biologist to enjoy a lengthy stroll along the paths lined by some 8,000 different species. When the weather turns ghastly (it often does), you can seek refuge in ten greenhouses and pretend it's summer.

• Haus Rüschhaus near Münster-Nienberge, about 7 kilometers west of the downtown . Late-Baroque country house, former residence of the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, beautiful and well-maintained Baroque garden

Museums

• City Museum - Stadtmuseum - If you're curious how the city evolved from the tiny hamlet of Mimigernaford it was in the 6th century to become the bike-infested metropolis of today and the City Museum holds the answers. Even though the exhibits are exclusively in (German), many speak for themselves, and admission is

• Picasso Museum - The only museum devoted exclusively to the graphic works of Pablo Picasso. Has varying exhibits on Picasso and his life, but also his contemporaries and friends, and holds almost all of his lithographical works.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Münster

• Zoo - There is an all-weather zoo in Münster.

• Swimming There is a nice modern indoor swimming swimmingpool near the town centre.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Münster

MuensterPrinzipalmarkt09 - Prinzipalmarkt—the city's main shopping neighborhood

Prinzipalmarkt and the main shopping neighborhood hosts mostly expensive brand-name fashion and jewelry stores.

Halal Restaurants in Münster

There is a huge choice of restaurants in Münster. The cuisine of almost every country in the world is represented.

Münster has a large student population so there are a range of cafes such as Cafe Extrablatt and Markt Cafe (on the market square by the Gothic Church).

• Café Garbo A cafe-pub which offers good, fresh food, mostly Vegetarian or vegan. A lot of fair trade and ecological products as Coffee, tea, juice's, vegetables. Sandwiches for breakfast, great house-made cake, Dutch and English menu (German menu also for blind people available!). Free-wlan, changing table, a lot of newspapers, nice, warm and cosy atmosphere, also meeting point for . Since it's also a cinema you can always view a movie before or after dinner. Most movies are in (German), but some are in their original languages with German subtitles.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Münster

Münster - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Münster, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Münster. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Münster and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Münster. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Münster. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMünster: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Münster.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Münster: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Münster, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Münster.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Münster, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Münster, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Münster and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Münster, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Münster, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Münster without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Münster is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Münster.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Münster is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Münster, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Münster Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Münster

eHalal Group Münster is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Münster. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Münster.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Münster ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Münster. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Münster, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Münster are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@halal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• Kaiserhof Hotel - A really nice choice, with modern rooms. From the outside, it looks like just a modern office block type building. But inside. It is really nicely decorated it the style of a traditional older hotel. There is also a free sauna for guests.

• Hotel Conti - ☎ +49 251 8469280
• Ibis Hotel - ☎ +49 251 48130
• Hotel Martinihof - A small family-run hotel in a quiet street at the fringe of the old city.

Nearby

Burg Hülshoff - Havixbeck - Münsterland - 201307 - Hülshoff Castle

• Burg Hülshoff Schonebeck 6, 48329 Havixbeck about 12 kilometers west of the downtown; on the D3 cycle path from Münster to Havixbeck . Romantic, late-medieval water castle owned by the noble family Droste-Hülshoff (whose most well-known offspring was the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff).
• Telgte about 12 kilometers east of the downtown; nice cycling route, or 12 minutes by hourly regional train . Lovely and peaceful old town; the octagonal Baroque Street Mary's Chapel is Northern Germany's most important Catholic pilgrimage destination. Moreover there is a museum of religious traditions, a distillery museum, several historic (Renaissance or Baroque) buildings, and a number of small restaurants and retail outlets.

Travel Next

• Lüdinghausen, small town with three castles, including the beautiful Vischering water castle, 30 kilometers south, best accessible by bike along the scenic "Route of hundred castles"
• Dülmen, mostly rebuilt after World War II, but has a number of historical sights and an extensive English-style landscape garden, 30 kilometers southwest, 20 minutes by half-hourly regional express
• Hamm, transportation hub, has one of the biggest and most impressive Hindu temples in Germany, 40 kilometers south, 25 minutes by half-hourly regional train
• Rheine, 1000-year old saline, medieval monastery, churches and royal manor, 45 kilometers north, 25 minutes by hourly regional express
• Osnabrück and the other city of the Westphalian Peace, 55 kilometers northeast, 35 minutes by hourly regional train, or by bike along the "Peace route"
• Dortmund, big trade and industrial city on the Ruhr steeped in history and famous for its football (soccer) team, 65 kilometers south, 30 minutes by intercity or 55 minutes by regional train
• Enschede, Münster's twin city in the Netherlands, 65 kilometers northwest, 1 hours 20 min by hourly regional train

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