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Krefeld is a city full of surprises. Small in size but big in character, it’s perfect for a cultural adventure. Whether you love medieval castles, luxurious silk, or hidden histories, Krefeld has something for everyone. Discovering Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets is like stepping into different worlds, each more fascinating than the last.
Krefeld has a rich legacy as one of Germany’s most important textile cities. Known historically as the “Velvet and Silk City,” Krefeld became a hub for silk, velvet, and fine fabric production starting in the 18th century. Wealthy merchants and skilled artisans transformed the city into a global textile center, influencing fashion across Europe.
Today, Krefeld’s textile history is celebrated in its museums, historic mills, and cultural sites, offering visitors a deep dive into a city built on craftsmanship, innovation, and artistic tradition.
Exploring Krefeld’s history as a textile city reveals the fascinating story behind its luxurious fabrics and industrial achievements. The first three places below are all within a short walking distance from each other.
Linn Castle
This castle was originally a fortress and later became a noble residence. Over the centuries, it has been beautifully preserved, allowing visitors to wander through historic halls, stone towers, the Kitchen, and courtyards.
Inside, you’ll find exhibitions about local history, archaeology, and the castle’s role in medieval life. What I also found fascinating is the life of Knights, describing tournaments and the display of weapons, armor, and their role in society throughout the ages. Be sure to check out the burial of Otto von Linn, a 12th-century knight.
Visitors can see his skeleton displayed respectfully in the castle’s historical context, offering a rare glimpse into medieval life, death, and burial traditions.
Linn Castle
Address: Rheinbabenstraße 85, 47809 Krefeld, Germany
Hours: April 1-October 31: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm Nov 1-March 31: Tue-Sun 11am-5pm
Closed Mondays and major holidays
Hunting Lodge
The Hunting Lodge at Burg Linn in Krefeld offers a fascinating glimpse into aristocratic life beyond the battlefield. Originally used by noble families and high-ranking officials, the lodge served as a refined retreat for hunting parties and social gatherings. Over time, it became a symbol of leisure, power, and prestige.
Today, visitors can step inside and explore beautifully preserved rooms filled with original furniture, hunting equipment, paintings, and decorative objects from the 17th and 18th centuries. Furthermore, the artifacts on display reveal how hunting was not just a sport, but also a carefully choreographed social ritual. In addition, detailed exhibits explain who lived and stayed here, how hunts were organized, and how wealth and status shaped daily life.
Meanwhile, the surrounding parkland reinforces the connection between nature and nobility, offering context for the lodge’s purpose. As a result, the Hunting Lodge adds depth to any visit to Burg Linn, balancing military history with elegance and culture. Ultimately, it is an essential stop for travelers eager to uncover another layer of Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets while exploring the city’s refined past.
Hunting lodge (Hunting Lodge) (part of the Burg Linn complex)
Address: Rheinbabenstraße 85, 47809 Krefeld, Germany
Hours: Same hours as Burg Linn (included in the museum visit) — Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00 (Apr–Oct) and 11:00–17:00 (Nov–Mar)
Archaeological Museum
This Archaeological Museum uncovers the city’s ancient past. Stone tools, pottery, and jewelry reveal human life thousands of years ago. Each artifact tells a story of survival, creativity, and culture.
Though smaller than the other museums, it offers a profound journey into the earliest chapters of Krefeld’s history. I was most impressed with the excavated Viking ship.
Archaeological Museum
Address: Rheinbabenstraße 85, 47809 Krefeld, Germany
Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00 (general schedule — often aligned with Burg Linn museum hours)
Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets: Textile Museum
The Textile Museum in Krefeld is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fabrics, fashion, and industrial heritage. This museum showcases both historical and modern textiles, from intricate silk creations to contemporary woven designs.
Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch live weaving demonstrations, and learn how Krefeld’s textile industry shaped local culture and economy. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, the Textile Museum Krefeld provides a fascinating insight into the city’s unique craftsmanship and industrial legacy.
German Textile Museum (Textile Museum)
Address: Andreasmarkt 8, 47809 Krefeld, Germany
Hours: During exhibitions: Tue–Sun 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (Apr–Oct) and Tue–Sun 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Nov–Mar)
Closed between exhibitions; check the website before visiting
Silk Museum
Known as the House of Silk Culture, it tells the story of a city once famous across Europe for luxury fabrics. Historically, Krefeld earned the title “Velvet and Silk City”, and this museum brings that legacy vividly to life. From the moment you enter, you are guided through the rise of silk production. Beginning in the 18th century, when skilled weavers and forward-thinking merchants transformed Krefeld into a global textile hub.
Furthermore, the museum showcases original silk looms, pattern books, tools, and richly woven fabrics. This allows visitors to understand the craftsmanship behind the trade. In addition, exhibits highlight how influenced silk fashion, interior design, and even royal courts throughout Europe.
Meanwhile, personal stories of weavers and manufacturers add a human dimension to the displays. As a result, the Silk Museum does more than present beautiful textiles—it explains how innovation, artistry, and industry shaped the city’s identity. Ultimately, visiting the Silk Museum is essential for anyone exploring Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets, offering an elegant and informative journey into the luxurious past that defines the city.
House of Silk Culture (Silk Museum)
Address: Luisenstraße 15, 47799 Krefeld, Germany
Hours: Vary seasonally; typically Tue–Sun afternoon/evening
Exploring Krefeld is like peeling back layers of time. Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets await every curious traveler, promising history, beauty, and unexpected discoveries.
Krefeld’s Castles, Silk, and Secrets – Tips for Visits
Combined tickets: Many of these museums (Burg Linn, Hunting Lodge, Archaeological Museum) offer combined entry tickets. This is especially a good value if you’re seeing several in one day.
Seasonal closures: Some museums (especially the Textile Museum) may close between exhibitions, so check ahead.
Public transport: Burg Linn and related sites are reachable via tram line 044 from Krefeld Hauptbahnhof. The Silk Museum is within a few minutes’ walking distance of the main train station.
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