LÜBECK’S ISLAND-SHAPED OLD TOWN NORDIC BEAUTY WITH STYLE

When UNESCO awarded the status of World Heritage Site to Lübeck’s medieval town centre, it was the first time a whole district had been nominated for such an award in Northern Europe. Even the archaeological treasures below ground formed part of it! The award assigns an exceptional universal value to the historical monument that is the Old Town in accordance with the definition of the World Heritage Committee, it is relevant not just for national or local communities but for the whole of mankind. Residents of Lübeck are very proud of this status, whilst at the same time recognise their obligation to preserve the World Heritage Site of Lübeck as a place of intercultural learning and a meeting point for future generations. On a stroll through the Old Town, past listed buildings stretching back more than 8 centuries, you will really be on an exciting journey through time.

This traditional restaurant used to be the most important gathering point for seafarers and captains. The building, with a façade that has barely changed since it was built, originates from the 16th century. To this day, it entices visitors through its historical ambience in the impressive guest room full of old model ships, paintings, seafaring equipment, woodcut banquets, chandeliers and murals.

Discover the romantic alleyways and courtyards that can be found behind the façades of grand merchant houses all over the Old Town. The medieval labyrinth is the secret lifeline of Lübeck.

The Holsten Gate is Lübeck’s most famous landmark, maybe you’ll recognise it from some 2€ coins! It was built in the late 15th century as part of the city’s fortifications designed to protect the wealthy city from enemy attacks. Today, the walls, with a thickness of 3.50 metres, harbour an exhibition entitled “The Power of Trade”. The various thematic rooms shed light on topics such as the Hanseatic League, trade and seafaring, as well as the history of the gate itself and the weaponry inside. Another highlight here is the model city of Lübeck, which perfectly illustrates the structure of the old town. It’s well worth a visit.

Built by many generations over a period of more than a century, the five medieval brick churches with their famous seven spires dominate the city’s skyline. Behind the historical walls of St. Mary's church, St. Peter's church, St. Giles' church, St. Jacob’s church and the Cathedral, the naves are a point of convergence for people, art and culture.

Wealthy merchants financed the construction of the Hospital of the Holy Spirit in the 13th century as a place for the old and sick. This makes it one of the oldest examples of medieval welfare in the whole of Europe. Discover the unique ambience of the historical church hall and the tiny “residential cubbyholes.” Here is especially worth a visit in the lead-up to Christmas, when a major craft market is held inside.

The Castle Monastery is the most important medieval monastery complex in North Germany and a former Dominican monastery. Today, it forms part of the European Hansemuseum which will take you on a thrilling journey through the history of the Hanseatic League. The Castle Gate guards the northern entrance to the Old Town and is one of the former four historical city gates of Lübeck. The castle monastery has stood through an eventful history, with it being turned into a poor house after the Reformation. The monastery church was then demolished at the end of the 19th century to make way for a court building. Today, the ensemble is part of the European Hansemuseum.

In the museum harbour, lovingly restored traditional yachts lie on the quay - lined up like a string of pearls. The storm-tried oldtimers have found their safe home port in Lübeck, but are still up for an adventure every now and then in the form of group charters or regattas. Why not come ‘on board and sail with us?