World Cultural Heritage Lübeck

 

The wealth produced had to be protected, so walls and city gates were built. Over the course of time only the Holstentor remained but Lübeck almost lost this striking building too. In 1855 some citizens wanted it to be demolished. After a dispute that lasted eight years a vote was taken and it was decided to restore the gate. The Holstentor has long been a landmark in Lübeck, recalling the city’s glorious past and is now also used in many logos. The brick building is richly ornamented and bears a Latin inscription which when translated reads: "Harmony inside and peace outside are indeed the best for everyone."

 

Lübeck’s unique silhouette of the seven towers of the five city centre churches can be seen from far away. The city was founded on a hill surrounded by the rivers Trave and Wakenitz. The charm of past centuries is still noticeable today. In the old town, there are 1,800 listed buildings, historic streets and winding alleys. Many buildings were extensively restored after the end of the Second World War. This unique ensemble was made a UNESCO world cultural heritage site in 1987. It was the first time that an entire urban area received this title in Northern Europe. The entire medieval city centre is a "work of art". The structure is a unique example of medieval urban architecture. In addition to the monumental churches, the burgher houses with their floorboards and courtyards, many of them with wall paintings and decorated ceilings, are also included. The town hall impresses with its varied architectural styles. There are not only magnificent houses, but also the unique 90 gateways and backyards which lead to small dwellings where the poor population lived. To get there, visitors often have to pass through narrow and low passages which today have been renovated and are now a special attraction.

 

 

Lübeck is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany so how about experiencing the special atmosphere at close range? No problem, in the middle of the old town there is a youth hostel (84 beds). Moreover, it is integrated into an historic row of houses. From here, all the sights can be reached on foot.  History is recorded in the Holstentor; the Buddenbrookhaus presents the life and work of the writers Heinrich and Thomas Mann; another museum is dedicated to the Nobel laureate for literature, Günter Grass. Also worth a visit are the impressive Marienkirche and the historic Heilig Geist-Hospital while the tower of St. Petri Church offers a view over the whole city and region. The numerous cafes and trendy restaurants as well as a variety of boutiques and unusual small shops are also attractive. Historic sailing boats are moored in the town harbour and boat trips are available on the Trave. Just two kilometers from the Old Town Youth Hostel lies the modern youth hostel "Vor dem Burgtor" with 211 beds from where a walk to the town centre only takes ten minutes.

 

This hostel is wheelchair accessible and well-known for good service. "For example; guests can choose between vegetarian, vegan, lactose and gluten-free food," says manageress Gudula Berger.

 

Lübeck is also a worthwhile tourist destination in winter. Popular souvenirs are the Lübeck Rotspon (a French red wine refined in Lübeck) and the Lübeck marzipan which was mentioned for the first time in 1530 and today is internationally famous for its quality. 

Jugendherberge / Youth Hostel Lübeck