Lübeck, proud capital of the former Hanseatic League, is a district-free city in the state Schleswig-Holstein with a population of around 217,000. It is the second biggest city in that state, which lies in North Germany.
The city is positioned at the Trave river with the largest German port on the Baltic Sea. The old part of the town is an islet enclosed by the Trave river.
In this particular region, the Elbe–Lübeck Canal joins the Trave with the Elbe river. Wakenitz is another significant river near the city’s center.
The city is very close to other major cities such as Hamburg and Kiel, and finds its connection via Autobahn. (To Denmark too, by the way.)
This city has a medieval environment and many sites of cultural and historical interest. For example, because of its Brick Gothic architectural heritage, this city is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
You will certainly feel a sense of delight while visiting the Holsten Gate (Holstentor), which is a colossal, 15th-century fortification. Its twin towers are certainly its illustrious landmark, and you’ll find its picture on most post cards.
This site is not only aide memoire of the martial vigor of the “Queen of the Hanseatic League,” but also of her self-assurance. Its enduring exposition in the Museum of City History is dedicated to city’s trade life in the late Middle Ages and early modern period.
Love historical places like churches? You’ll surely have fun here in the form of St. Mary’s Church. This triple-naved cathedral is a characteristic and enormously remarkable brick building. By means of a central nave, which is roughly 40 m (131 ft) high and two towers rising to 125 m (410 ft), it is the third-largest church in Germany.
It is also regarded as the highest brick vaulted construction in the world. St. Mary’s Church is thought to be the very initial example of Gothic-style architecture using local brick instead of natural stone. In later years, it became a model for numerous Gothic brick churches all over the Baltic region.
The Buddenbrooks which is extremely opposite to St. Mary’s Church, is the natural location for experiencing the life and work of the two Mann brothers.
Other Points Of Interest
You’re going to find some fine sandy beaches and all the atmosphere of a traditional seaside resort with a casino and many cruise liners and passenger ships. The four-mast barque “Passat,” which is surely among the supreme sailing ships, has turned out to be the landmark of its Travemünde district.
You’re with family? Then excursions to the Hansa-Park theme park in Sierksdorf on the Baltic coast could result in a marvelous treat. :-)
Traveling by air? The Lübeck Airport [LBC] is located south of the city and has a train station right at the terminal.
