Popular sights and activities in Luebeck, Germany

Hansestadt Luebeck
Different sights to see, historical buildings:

    Hansestadt Luebeck is most recognized for its 15th century Holstentor gateway. Which presents a fairy tale appearance with its twin spires and lining forests. The gate was constructed during the years of 1464-1478, by Hinrich Helmstede and served as both Luebeck’s defense and a sign of the cities prestige. Inside of this historical monument is the Holstentor Museum, which contains the history of Luebeck’s hanseatic trade links as well as exhibits displaying ship models, suits of armor, weapons, legal instruments, and other articles from Luebeck’s past.
    Encircled by the Trave River, Altstadt (Old town), in Luebeck, stands as a significant symbol of brick stone architecture from the Gothic period. It is a picturesque medieval town characterized by cultural sights, symbolizing the great past of Luebeck as free Hanseatic City. Luebeck contains more than 1000 historical buildings, though, the more familiar buildings within Altstadt include; the 13th century Rathaus (Town Hall), the convent “Burgkolster”,  a particularly well preserved quarter of the late 13th century, Koberg, with St. Johns church and the Hospital of the Heiligen Geist (Holy Spirit).
    Heiligen Geist is Germany’s oldest hospital, built in 1227. The building is known for its four striking octagonal spires and beautiful exterior. Today the building contains eateries and many unusual chambers, which were built to provide the sick with a level of privacy.  During the Christmas holidays, Heiligen Geist Hospital hosts the popular Christmas Market. Heiligen Geist Hospital and other historic buildings of Luebeck’s Altstadt were added to the list of World Heritage in December of 1987.
    Historical buildings and monuments can be found throughout Luebeck, Germany.  The Drehbruecke Bridge is contained within Altstadt, but contrary to the surrounding buildings, it was built at the end of the 19th Century. The bridge links the main harbor areas and features a swing mechanism, allowing large ships access through the waterway. Another significant building in Luebeck is the Stadtbibliothek (city library), dating back to the mid-1920’s. Rich history can be found on nearly every corner of Luebeck’s streets.


Activities and Types of Recreation in Luebeck

Luebeck is dotted with many parks and bike paths giving locals and visitors numerous locations to bicycle, walk, hike, horseback ride, or just enjoy the scenery. These parks often will have football fields, tennis courts and basketball courts.Luebeck is also on the Trave River which offers many water sports and activities. In the summer months locals can go swimming, sailing, kayaking, and fishing in the many bays and ponds around Luebeck.
Luebeck is also near the Baltic Sea and its only a short drive where you can stroll along the beach, surf, or make a sand castle in the white baltic sand.