Medieval Escapade: Guiding Kids by the Nose
In the heart of Germany, the historic city of Neuss is now home to an innovative and captivating audio tour designed specifically for children. Titled "Neusser Geschichte für Kinder" (Neuss History for Children), this tour offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing young listeners to explore the city's rich medieval history through the voices and perspectives of their peers [1][2][3].
The tour, a collaborative effort between the Neuss City Archive, a media competence team from Rhein-Kreis Neuss, and local schoolchildren from several schools, is accessible via QR codes on a specially created folding map (Faltplan) or online on the official homepage of the City of Neuss [1][2]. Physical copies of the folding map can also be found at the City Archive (Stadtarchiv) Neuss and the Tourist Information office at the market square in Neuss [1][2].
Since its launch on July 2, 2025, the audio tour and accompanying map have been available to all, with children able to start the tour from any of the nine listening stations and follow the medieval history of Neuss through engaging stories about city defenses, the city coat of arms, historic buildings like the Quirinus Münster, and other intriguing historical details presented in a child-friendly way [3].
Dr. Jens Metzdorf, director of the Neuss City Archives, emphasises the importance of conveying the city's history to primary school students, stating that this tour offers an excellent opportunity for children to learn about their city's past in an engaging and interactive way [2]. The tour has been praised by Ursula Platen, the deputy mayor for youth, education, and culture, who believes that the children will remember the project for many years to come [2].
The success of the audio tour project lies in its ability to engage young minds, with children between the ages of six and twelve said to be incredibly interested in history and their surroundings. The tour aims to teach children about the city's history, geography, architecture, media, and teamwork, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for all who participate [2].
Looking to the future, Dr. Metzdorf has announced that the tour may grow to include more historical stations explained by children for children, providing a dynamic and evolving resource for young explorers [2]. With its unique approach and engaging content, the "Neusser Geschichte für Kinder" audio tour is a must-do for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering a fresh and captivating way to explore the medieval history of Neuss.
References:
[1] City of Neuss. (2025). Neusser Geschichte für Kinder. Retrieved from https://www.neuss.de/stadtarchiv/neusser-geschichte-fuer-kinder/
[2] Rhein-Kreis Neuss. (2025). Neusser Geschichte für Kinder: Ein interaktives Hörspiel für Kinder. Retrieved from https://www.rhein-neuss.de/neusser-geschichte-fuer-kinder-ein-interaktives-hoerspiel-fuer-kinder/
[3] Neuss City Archives. (2025). Neusser Geschichte für Kinder: Entdecken Sie die Geschichte Ihrer Stadt mit einer Hörspiel- und Faltkarte. Retrieved from https://www.stadtarchiv-neuss.de/neusser-geschichte-fuer-kinder-entdecken-sie-die-geschichte-ihrer-stadt-mit-einer-hoerspiel-und-faltkarte/
- The Neusser Geschichte für Kinder, an innovative audio tour in Neuss, Germany, offers children an engaging and interactive learning experience, immersing them in the city's medieval history through child-friendly storytelling and nine listening stations.
- By participating in this educational tour, children have the opportunity to learn about Neuss's history, geography, architecture, media, and teamwork, making it an enjoyable way for them to acquire knowledge and develop a deeper appreciation for their city.