Understand

Lbeck, the second largest city in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a place where history truly comes alive. Its medieval old city, known as Altstadt, is a sight to behold and evokes a sense of wonder akin to the charm of southern German cities. Despite enduring heavy bombing during World War II, much of the old city managed to survive, either standing strong since medieval times or undergoing meticulous reconstruction. In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, Lbeck has been proudly included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Explore the city center, and you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing skyline dominated by seven gothic-style church towers. Surrounding the center are fragments of the ancient city walls, and two of the original four city gates still stand tall, with the Holsten Gate, or Holstentor, stealing the limelight. This iconic gate was even featured on the German banknote of 50 Marks until its redesign following German reunification in 1990. Lbeck holds a rich history as an independent city state, once flourishing as the capital of the Hanseatic League from the 11th to the 17th century. Its wealth grew through salt trade, as merchants traveled to Baltic port cities to exchange this valuable commodity for goods essential to Germany's prosperity. Exploring the impressive warehouses lining the old harbor, now transformed into museums, shops, restaurants, and pubs, allows visitors to step into Lbeck's prosperous past. However, as sea trade shifted to the Atlantic in the 17th century, Lbeck's influence began to dwindle, gradually losing its status as a prominent trading city compared to Bremen and Hamburg. Thomas Mann immortalized this era in his famous novel Buddenbrooks, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1929. The aftermath of World War II and the iron curtain hindered access to trading partners in the eastern Baltic, leaving a lasting impact on Lbeck's economy and infrastructure beyond the enchanting city center. Despite these challenges, Lbeck still stands as a testament to the resilience of its people and continues to captivate visitors with its timeless charm.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Schnitzel - Traditional German breaded and fried meat cutlet, typically made with pork or veal. It is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, often served with potatoes and a side of sauce, such as tartar sauce or gravy.

Currywurst - A German fast food staple consisting of a sausage (usually a Vienna sausage) covered in a curry ketchup sauce, typically served with fries or a roll. This dish is known for its unique blend of flavors, combining German sausage with a hint of Indian spices.

Sauerkraut - Fermented cabbage dish that is a staple in German cuisine. It features cabbage that has been salted, shredded, and allowed to ferment, resulting in a tangy, slightly sour taste. Sauerkraut is often served as a side dish, accompanying meats and sausages.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing