Experience the largest operating technology museum in Germany. Discover the living past in the Eifel: On selected days, the Birgel Historical Water Mill becomes a place of adventure for the whole family. The Technology Museum comes to life and impressively shows how mills, motors and machines used to define everyday life.

Marvel at a fully functional steam engine from 1917, a mechanical oil press that has been in operation for over 130 years, and a three-story grain mill with a water turbine. Other highlights include a historic lathe, a mustard mill, a grist machine, as well as the in-house scoop brewery and brandy distillery.

Dates 2025:
19.04., 24.04., 13.07., 17.07., 03.08., 07.08., 16.10., 23.10.

Note: A varied children's programme can be booked at an additional cost. For example, children can bake bread, make cereal, stir mustard or press oil – all using traditional methods and under instruction.

Eifel: Entrance Technology Museum Historical Watermill Birgel

With the combination ticket "From gate to gate" you have access to all Saalfeld city gates. They are completely flexible in time. The city gates are open daily from 9am to 6pm. The ticket is valid for 90 days from the first entry. So you can visit the gates in peace and quiet for several days in a row. 

Join the Nuremberg merchant Georg Pelzer on his journey in 1610. With his entourage he is on his way over the old trade route towards Leipzig. In the process, he goes from one misfortune to the next. Will they make it in time? Find out more...

UPPER GATE: Never travel without risk. 

DARRTOR: Of villains, executioners and executioners. 

SAALTOR: A herb has grown against everything. 

BLANKENBURG GOAL: United in guilds, refined by craftsmanship.

Saalfeld : Experience exhibitions in the historic city gates

In the heart of the volcanic Eifel lies the Birgel Historical Water Mill – a place that combines traditional craftsmanship, history and hospitality. Four restored, functional mills – grain, mustard, oil and sawmills – illustrate how hydropower was used in the past. Especially impressive is the grain mill, modernized in 1917, once the largest in Daun County.

During guided tours, visitors experience the production of flour, mustard and oil and can taste traditional sourdough bread from the stone oven in the mill bakery. Another highlight is the in-house distillery with courses and tasting.

The on-site restaurant invites you to linger (self-paying basis) and offers regional specialities. Whether family celebration, wedding or conference – the mill offers individual programs and remains a lively place where old traditions can be experienced.

Museums in Germany

Eifel: Entrance Technology Museum Historical Watermill Birgel

Saalfeld : Experience exhibitions in the historic city gates

Eifel Guided tour of Historic Water Mill in the Volcanic Eifel