Delbrück: Nature, History and Tradition

Delbrück can be explored through a range of themes: the Steinhorster Becken is known for its wetlands and birdwatching, while chapels, the local history room and the Roman camp bring religious, local and ancient history to life. The Katharinenmarkt adds a tradition spanning several days. If you are looking for accommodation, you can first consider whether a set event weekend or nature and history are more likely to shape your stay.

Market Tradition and Chapels

The Katharinenmarkt in Delbrück takes place over four days on the third weekend in September. It dates back more than 400 years as a livestock and general goods market, giving your travel plans a specific date to work around. Check the current event dates before your visit.

The Kreuzkapelle on Ostenländer Straße in Delbrück was built in 1723 in the Neoclassical style, with an open vestibule. This vestibule is a striking architectural feature of the building. The Rellerkapelle on Rellerweg has a different story: it was rebuilt in 1869 after its predecessor was destroyed by a lightning strike.

The Andreaskapelle stands on Tegethof and is also known colloquially as “Körings Kapelle.” It was built in 1655 and registered on 5 May 1981 as the city of Delbrück’s first listed monument. The chapel at Valepagenhof remains at its original location; local associations often meet there for May devotions. Together, the chapels reveal different traces of religious tradition and local architectural history.

The Delbrück local history room in the Heimathaus at Kirchplatz 10 displays original Delbrück costumes and historic flags. There are also exhibits from the “Eintracht” carnival association and the St. John’s Rifle Brotherhood of Delbrück. The collection thus brings together festive clothing and mementos of local association life.

Roman History in Anreppen

The Anreppen Roman camp covered around 23 hectares and once accommodated about 6,000 soldiers. It was established at the beginning of the 1st century AD, among other things to supply Roman troops. Reconstructed camp ditches, sections of the road system and a sewer illustrate the scale of the former military site. An archaeological educational trail leads to the areas where evidence has been found. Tours of the Roman camp can be requested from the city of Delbrück.

Birdlife and Wetlands at the Steinhorster Becken

The Steinhorster Becken covers around 80 hectares and is considered North Rhine-Westphalia’s largest reserve deliberately planned and created by humans for nature conservation. Its bodies of water, wet meadows and islands provide a protected habitat for numerous waterbirds and wading birds. The different landscape features shape the character of the area and provide a setting for birdwatching.

The nature reserve itself is not accessible, in order to protect the animals. Birds can be observed from the crest of the terminal embankment, from a walking trail and at viewpoints on the northern edge. This restriction is important to keep in mind when visiting: nature observation is possible at the locations mentioned, but not within the reserve itself.

More Things to Do in Delbrück

Nadermann Zoo in Delbrück-Schöning is home to animals from different regions of the world. Another option is a long walk through the greenery in and around Bentfeld, a district of Delbrück. The route passes historic sights and a farm café serving coffee and cake. Animal watching and a walk with stops at places of historical interest offer different ideas for your stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Herbram, Altenbeken, Borchen, Bad Lippspringe, Salzkotten, Hövelhof, Bad Wünnenberg, Lichtenau.

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