Mittelalterliches Foltermuseum Passau
Private museum in historic vaults on the Passau Anger on medieval legal history, the Inquisition, witch hunts and punishments.
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About the museum
The museum shows the legal history of the Middle Ages and the era of the witch hunts. For more than 30 years it was based in Rüdesheim am Rhein, from where it moved to Passau. The collection was assembled by the founders Manfred Münch (died 2021) and Heinrich Holderbach, supported by historians.
In Passau the exhibition rooms are in vaults on the Anger, an area already settled in the Middle Ages. Around 140 exhibits date from the time of the Inquisition and the witch hunts, including rare originals and faithfully reproduced replicas. One focus is the witch hunts of the 14th to 16th centuries; another is public punishment at the pillory.
Each piece is explained and illustrated with examples; the course of a trial and the jurisdiction under canon law are also explained. The house sees itself as a contribution to coming to terms with injustice and also points to torture in the present day. It is privately run and financed through admission fees.
Highlights
- Around 140 exhibits on the Inquisition and witch hunts
- Historic vaulted rooms on the Anger
- Focus on pillory punishments
- Labels also in English
Permanent exhibition
- Folter, Inquisition und Hexenverfolgung – Around 140 exhibits on medieval law, witch hunts and pillory punishments, in vaulted rooms.
- Operated by
- Kunst-Treff-an-der-Donau (Veranstalter: Walter Nussbaumer)
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €7 |
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| Reduced | €5 |
| Children & teens | €5 |
| Groups | –Reduced rates and special times can be arranged for school classes and group travelers. |
Card payment possible on site.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available · 5-min walk to the entrance
Parking lot and parking garages under the Schanzlbrücke (not during high water), about 5 minutes' walk to the museum.
Amenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Good to know | Dogs are allowed, subject to a leash and a duty of care. School trips, events and company outings can be requested via the contact form. |
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