Alte Neustadt

The Alte Neustadt was the new city that grew as a planned expansion of 17th-century Bremen. It wasn’t created because the old city lacked space, but to protect Bremen and its port. This new city was surrounded by fortifications. Situated directly on the Weser, the Alte Neustadt remains a bustling area today. The Alte Neustadt has a rich history. In the early years of the 17th century, new fortifications were constructed around Bremen to improve its defenses against artillery bombardment. The city of Bremen, at that time, did not yet extend beyond the Weser river to the west. The fortifications of the Alte Neustadt were completed in 1627. There were only two main entrances to the city. The impressive Hohe Tor and the simple Su00fcder-Tor, later referred to as the Bunte Tor. There were many taverns around these entrances where drivers could spend the night. Today, the Hohentorsplatz, Hohentorsstrau00dfe, Hohentorskirche, and the Buntentor district with the Buntentorsteinweg commemorate these two gates. The Bastionstrau00dfe also reminds us of one of the bastions. In 1666, Swedish forces besieged the city from the west, but the Alte Neustadt’s fortifications held! The Swedish forces were defeated, and Bremen was saved. Today, the Alte Neustadt is a vibrant part of Bremen. It’s home to the University of Applied Sciences, Bremen, and many cultural landmarks. The area is popular with students, young families, and those who love to be near the water, so if you have time, walk along the Weser while you’re visiting!