Where history meets warmth!

History comes alive in Hermann's land – and hospitality is a top priority.
Lippe inspires with cultural treasures and an eventful past: from traces of the Cherusci tribe to medieval old towns and the glorious princely era, a region full of stories and traditions unfolds. Castles, palaces, museums and historical sites invite you to embark on a journey of discovery – authentic, diverse and accessible.

 

But it is not only history that makes Lippe special – it is the people. With Lippe warmth and a pinch of Westphalian down-to-earthness, they welcome guests and ensure that visitors quickly feel at home. Whether at a village festival, a guided tour of the open-air museum or over coffee and cake in a family-run farm café – this is where genuine encounters take place.

Discover a region that preserves its history while remaining open to new ideas – a destination that touches, inspires and connects.

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

Lippe's regional history

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / F. Grawe

The first settlements in Lippe were already documented in the Stone Age, around 3000 BC.

Early settlement

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

In the year 9 AD, the famous Battle of Varus took place near Lippe, more precisely in the Teutoburg Forest. Roman legions under the command of Varus were defeated by Germanic tribes led by Arminius.

Varus Schlacht

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

In 1180, Lippe was first mentioned as an independent region, which underlines its medieval significance.

Medieval development

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

The Principality of Lippe was officially founded in 1528 after it seceded from the Duchy of Westphalia.

Foundation of the Principality of Lippe

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / P. Gawandtka

The Reformation reached Lippe around 1529, leading to profound religious changes.

Reformation and religious changes

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

Lippe became a member of the German Confederation in 1815, after the Congress of Vienna.

The German Confederation and the 19th century

© Lippe Tourismus & Marketing GmbH

On 23 August 1946, Lippe became part of the newly founded federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Today, Lippe is a vibrant region with a rich history, characterised by cultural diversity and economic development.

Integration into the state of North Rhine-Westphalia

Famous people in Lippe

Municipalities in Lippe

© Lippe Tourismus & Marketing GmbH

Events

© LTM / A. Isaak

MoNaTour

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

Lippe Stories

© Teutoburger Wald Tourismus / D. Ketz

Municipalities in Lippe

Discover the diversity of Lippe's municipalities – from charming half-timbered towns to idyllic villages surrounded by greenery. Each municipality tells its own story, offering quality of life, cultural highlights and a strong community. Get to know the places that make Lippe so special!

 

Stories from Lippe

Lippe tells exciting, touching and surprising stories from the region. Whether historical events, personal memories or special people: life in Lippe comes alive here. Immerse yourself in a world full of stories that connect and inspire.