Town twinning with Münster

In 1957, twelve years after the end of World War II, Münster was twinned with York, marking the city’s first and therefore oldest city partnership. This was initiated by the city of York. Ties of reconciliation were to be forged after the horrors of war. In July 1957, the city of York invited representatives of the city of Münster to England, including Lord Mayor Dr. Busso Peus and City Director Heinrich Austermann. In March 1958, representatives of York visited Münster, amongst others Lord Mayor E. L. Keld. These two visits sealed the twinning of the cities. The desire for peace and understanding among peoples forms the basis of this partnership, which has very quickly been actively supported and experienced by the citizens of York and Münster.

In Münster, the Partnership Association Münster – York was founded, and in York, respectively, the York-Münster-Association. These associations provide a forum for exchange and regular trips to the twin city for everyone interested in York or Münster. Fortunately, some choirs, associations, and interest groups from the two cities have been friends for decades. Many friendships and even family relationships have developed over the years. Besides, the two city administrations maintain relationships, too, since “thinking outside the box” often times offers simple solutions to domestic problems.

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