Theme islands present the most important epochs and turning points - from the Devonian Age, when Balve was still located in the tropical shallow sea, to iron production in the Middle Ages. The visitor also learns how man has profited from Balve's "earth treasures" to this day. The exhibited objects refer to the importance of Balve as a supra-regionally significant site of prehistory and early history. Dinosaur remains and other fossils from the Mass Limestone, Ice Age animal bones, and Stone Age tools and weapons from the caves of the Hönnetal valley continue to provide new insights into earlier living environments.
The Insthaus, a former worker's residence of the Luisenhütte, houses the "Hüttenschänke". The hearty ambience invites you to enjoy coffee and cake or small meals. When the weather is nice, the restaurant has a Biergarten, which is located directly in front of the main building of the Luisenhütte. The taproom offers up to 31 seats and is also suitable for small parties. In agreement with the operators of the "Hüttenschänke" it is also possible to hold meetings outside the opening hours. On such occasions, it is generally possible to organize exclusive "late or night shifts" at the Luisenhütte, i.e. tours outside opening hours.
Text: City of Balve (Jürgen Meller)
The Museum of Prehistory and Early History is a sight to see at