Discover Gemen's secret stories with gatekeeper Dieter Hoffmann!

Discover Gemen's secret stories with gatekeeper Dieter Hoffmann!

Gemen, a tranquil district of Borken, invites story lovers to take an exciting tour. On Friday, June 27, 2025, at 6 p.m., city guide Dieter Hoffmann, dressed as a gatekeeper, will lead you through the streets and alleys. The event begins at the Ackerbürgerhaus Grave, Achter de Waake 13. The participation fee costs seven euros and is available at the tourist information center in the FARB Forum Altes Rathaus Borken or online. Children up to 14 years of age have free entry, but prior registration would be advisable to ensure everything runs smoothly.

What can visitors expect on this special tour? In about an hour and a half, Hoffmann provides exciting insights into the history of the former Gemen rule. He talks about the living conditions of the former residents, including nobles, clerics, castle men, craftsmen and farmers. The gatekeeper once had the important task of checking the city's gates and collecting toll payments. Such stories allow you to imagine the eventful past and show how the influence of these groups continues to affect the present. These and other stories shed light not only on everyday life, but also on the cultural roots that have shaped Gemen.

A journey through history

The tours offer more than just a look at the historic buildings; they are a real journey through time. Dieter Hoffmann not only conveys knowledge, but also a pinch of mysticism and fantasy. The city guide has even written fairy tales that focus on Gemen Castle and its historical residents. And for those who would like to engage with the story digitally, some of his stories are available on a YouTube channel. The latest work is entitled “A Goblin in the Sophienwäldchen” and brings the past to life.

The city tours are intended for both visitors and locals and promise to captivate participants with many exciting events from the past. Few people know that the history of the nobles, clerics, castle men, craftsmen and farmers is closely intertwined and that the everyday life of the former residents still influences life in Gemen today. These tours are an ideal option for history buffs and families.

Booking options and contact

If you would like to take part in a group, you can book individual appointments via the Borken Tourist Information Office. If you have any questions or want to book, you can reach the Tourist Information on 02861/7584 or by email at tourist-info@borken.de. Take the opportunity to experience the history of Gemen up close and let Dieter Hoffmann take you to another time!

For more information about the tours and the stories behind them, please also visit the website Lokalklick.eu, heimatverein-gemen.de and hallo-borken.de. There you will find further exciting information and news about the events!