Women's power - Women's power III

Wise Women - Wicked Women: Medicine, Magic & Witchcraft in the Early Modern Era

Anyone who fell ill in the 16th century did not go to the doctor. Studied doctors practiced exclusively in the cities and at the princely courts.

For fractures, dislocations and open wounds, it was better for citizens to go to a surgeon or a bath doctor, as they were better versed in practical medicine than a doctor. Herbal healers also practised in town and country, specializing in various ailments. Their methods were limited to burning incense with herbs, laying on of hands and talking. Herbal tinctures and ointments were also used. In addition to treating people, some also treated sick livestock.Things became difficult when the cure didn't work or the ailment worsened. If there were also neighbourly disputes, the person concerned could very quickly turn from a wise woman into a wicked woman. As the knowledge of how to cure illnesses was passed on from mother to daughter, an entire family quickly came under suspicion of practising witchcraft. Even coming from another town or the neighboring village could arouse suspicion. In the early modern period, people attributed illnesses, livestock plagues and extreme weather conditions to the work of witches and sorcerers. Martin Luther was no exception.

The tour takes place in the castle garden. Individual medicinal plants are presented on site, but you will also find out what needs to be put in the witches' ointment to make the flight to the Brocken work.In the old kitchen, you can try some herbs and make your own tea.Translated with DeepL

Meeting point: Box office in the café

Price: €12.00

Reduced price: €10.00

Next date:

• Date Sunday, 10/May/2026 11:00
• Venue Jagdschloss Grunewald
• Address Hüttenweg 100, 14193 Berlin-Zehlendorf