Blomberg - Martiniturm

A Saxonian settlement had probably existed here since the 6th century, but the town of Blomberg was founded around 1240 by Bernhard III. zur Lippe, the ruling lord of the Principality of Lippe. His grandson Simon I. zur Lippe built a castle as his residency and fortified Blomberg.

The Martiniturm is the oldest building in Blomberg, as the lower part of the tower dates to the 13th century, when the town was founded. The church dedicated to St. Martin of Tours, of which the tower was a part from, fell into disrepair and got demolished in 1833.

In 1460 a woman named Alheyd Pustekoke stole from this church 45 consecrated hosts. For fear of discovery, she threw them into the fountain, but the wafers did not sink. As host desecration was a felony at that time, Alheyd was convicted and burned as a punishment at the stake.

Soon after, the news spread that the well, where the hosts did not had sunken, had miraculous healing powers and Blomberg became a place of pilgrimage.