Seven monumental Gothic church towers define Lübeck’s skyline. They have remained practically unchanged since the 15th century. Today, we have a great vantage point to observe them all. This is Panorama in Lübeck.
Lübeck’s old town became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. When you look at the skyline, you’re peering back to the Middle Ages. The panorama has remained practically unchanged since the 15th century.
Lübeck owes its great history to its location on important trade routes. It was a member of the Hanseatic League, a union of merchants and towns in the Middle Ages. This earned it the prestigious title “Hansestadt”, or Hanseatic city.
The historic old town was built on an island. As you explore, note the 1,800 listed buildings and historic streets. Don’t miss the winding alleyways and gateways. Also discover the “Stiftshöfe”, alms houses where widows of merchants and sailors once found shelter with their children.
Lübeck suffered heavily from Allied bombings in World War II. Fortunately, only part of the inner city was destroyed, compared to other German cities. After the war, the center was beautifully restored. This allows us to enjoy Lübeck’s highlights today.
Begin your walking tour of Lübeck at the Holstentor. Many consider this large city gate from the 15th century one of Germany’s most beautiful buildings. It was built as part of the fortifications due to the city’s prosperity. The Holstentor has been preserved.
Just a few steps from the Holstentor are the salt warehouses from the 16th century. Salt was an important trade product. It was transported by water to the warehouses and stored. The salt was then sold to various countries for food preservation.
Lübeck’s town hall is an excellent example of North German brick Gothic style. The facade is made of glazed brick. Construction began in the 13th century and was completed a century later. The town hall was renovated and expanded in later centuries.
The seven spires that define Lübeck’s skyline belong to five churches. A visit to St. Peter’s Church is a must because it has a viewing point at 50 meters high. From there, you can enjoy a fantastic panorama over the city.
St. Mary’s Church is a prime example of Baltic brick Gothic architecture. Highlights include depictions of the Dance of Death, the astronomical clock, the altar, and the chapel with the clock that crashed down in 1942. In front of the church stands the statue of The Devil’s Stone.
In 1286, the Heiligen-Geist-Hospital was established. The building is one of the most important monumental buildings in brick Gothic. Notable features are the facade with three pointed gables, the church hall, and the nave where beds of the needy were set up.
The old city center is a labyrinth of alleys and courtyards. Behind the brick facades lie green oases. The small dwellings originated when trade flourished and living space was scarce. These courtyards are now delightful resting places with charming houses and beautiful gardens.
Lübeck’s marzipan is world-famous. At Café Niederegger, you can indulge in marzipan creations. Above the café is a Marzipan Museum, featuring life-size marzipan figures.
Lübeck is famous for its medieval city center. It has churches, the Holstentor, and small alleys. Lübeck has been called “Die Stadt der 7 Türme” because of its seven prominent church towers.
Over 80% of the old town has preserved its medieval appearance. The rest is currently being restored. At one time, the town could only be entered by four town gates, two of which remain today: the Holstentor and the Burgtor.
The old town center is dominated by seven church steeples. The oldest are Lübeck Cathedral and the Marienkirche, both dating from the 13th and 14th centuries.
Gaze out at this panorama. See how Lübeck blends its rich history with modern life. The city continues to thrive while preserving its heritage. Today, Lübeck attracts many tourists due to its history and architecture. It is known as one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.