Executioner’s tour – walking tour with the executioner through Landshut

Engaging Landshut’s Dark Side: The Executioner’s Tour Review

If you’re intrigued by the darker side of history and enjoy stories rooted in real events, the Executioner’s Tour in Landshut offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past, narrated by someone who knows the craft firsthand. Priced at $227 for a private group of up to 20, this 1.5-hour walking experience promises to be both engaging and educational, combining historical facts with storytelling that’s just a bit eerie.

What stands out most is the chance to walk through Landshut’s streets with an authentic executioner guide, learning about the lengths towns went to uphold justice from medieval times to modern days. The tour’s highlights—visiting the former execution site, a 20th-century crime scene, and the last witch’s home—make it a compelling choice for history buffs or anyone curious about the city’s more sinister stories.

One consideration? The price might seem steep for some, especially since it’s a private tour, but many find the immersive storytelling and exclusive access well worth it. The experience is best suited for those over 12, particularly adults or older teens interested in local history, crime, and justice.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from an experienced guide who’s familiar with the city’s darker history
• Visit to significant sites like the original execution area, a notorious 20th-century crime scene, and the last witch’s home
• Private and flexible tour options, with a focus on a personalized experience
• Educational content covering punishment from antiquity to modern times
• Accessible for wheelchair users and suitable for older children, but not ideal for children under 12
• Cost reflects exclusivity, making it a more premium experience for those interested in niche history topics

A Deep Dive into the Landshut Executioner’s Tour

The Unique Perspective of a Historical Executioner

What sets this tour apart from others in Landshut is the presence of a guide who actually embodies the role of an executioner, bringing authenticity and a bit of theatrical flair to the storytelling. Georg Zollitsch, the experience provider, has crafted a route that weaves together historical facts, local legends, and personal anecdotes. As we walk with him, it becomes clear that he’s passionate about sharing the often grim but fascinating history of justice in Landshut.

Starting Point: Under Martin’s Tower

The tour begins at a spot that’s easy to find—directly beneath Martin’s Tower in the old town. This central location makes it simple for visitors to gather, and it sets the tone for a journey into the city’s past. From here, Zollitsch guides you through narrow streets and open squares, each with stories that will make you look at Landshut differently.

Historic Execution Site: Walking into the Past

One of the first stops is the site where executions once took place. While today it’s just a quiet part of town, the guide recounts how this area saw justice served in the most definitive way. We loved the way Zollitsch painted a picture of medieval punishment, describing the types of crimes that led to executions and how societal views on justice have evolved.

A Crime Scene from the 20th Century

Moving forward in time, the tour visits a scene connected to a horrific crime from 1922—a double murder that shocked the city. This stop offers a stark reminder that Landshut’s history isn’t just medieval; it’s also marked by more recent, real-life tragedies. The guide provides details about the event, adding context that helps visitors understand the local impact of crime and justice through the ages.

The Last Witch’s Home

No tour of Landshut’s darker history is complete without mentioning the witch trials. The guide shows you the birthplace of Veronika Zerritsch, believed to be the last woman to be burned in Landshut. We appreciated how this stop humanized the witch hunts, emphasizing the fear and superstition that fueled such tragic events. The story is both sobering and captivating, making it a highlight of the route.

What You’ll Learn

Throughout this 90-minute walk, Zollitsch shares anecdotes about criminals, murderers, and swindlers—giving flavor to each story. He explains how punishment methods transitioned from antiquity to modern times, making the experience both entertaining and educational. The stories of the most infamous executions in Landshut, the changing legal landscape, and the personal histories behind the crimes add depth that many visitors find compelling.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for visitors with mobility needs. It’s also private, allowing for a tailored experience, and the guide’s fluent German narration ensures a clear and engaging delivery. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, as the content can be quite intense.

The price of $227 covers the entire experience for up to 20 people, which, when split among a small group, makes for quite a personalized and immersive journey. Considering the depth of storytelling and the exclusive access to notable sites, many find this tour offers good value—especially if you’re eager to explore Landshut’s more shadowy historical layers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in crime, justice, and medieval punishment. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than a surface-level tour and don’t mind a slightly macabre theme. Older teens and adults will appreciate the stories, but the content isn’t suitable for young children.

For those seeking a cultural and historical perspective with a theatrical twist, this tour offers a memorable way to see Landshut through a different lens. Its focus on authentic storytelling, combined with the guide’s role-playing, makes it stand out from conventional city walks.

Final Thoughts

The Executioner’s Tour in Landshut offers a fascinating and somewhat chilling journey into the city’s history of justice and punishment. Its detailed stories, authentic guide, and exclusive stops make it a compelling choice for curious travelers. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, many guests feel the intimate, personalized experience justifies the cost, especially given the quality of storytelling and insights provided.

If you’re someone who enjoys unraveling local legends, exploring historical crime scenes, and learning about the evolution of justice, this tour could be a highlight of your Landshut visit. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a mix of history, storytelling, and a touch of the macabre — all delivered with a sense of respect and depth.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the potentially intense content related to crime and punishment stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore key sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins directly under Martin’s Tower in the old town and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to participate comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour with a live German-speaking guide, tailored to a private group.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay in advance?
Yes, booking requires a reservation, but you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Is this a guided tour with a professional historian?
The guide, Georg Zollitsch, is experienced and knowledgeable, providing an authentic and engaging narration from the perspective of a former executioner.

Whether you’re interested in history, crime, or just want a different way to explore Landshut, this tour offers a distinctive perspective that’s both informative and memorable.