Holstentor – Lübeck : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Holstentor of Lübeck is one of the most recognizable symbols of the north German city, a gorgeous double-towered red brick structure that stands tall near the banks of the Trave river. Dating back to the 15th century, this majestic gateway structure is part of the city walls surrounding Old Lübeck, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides its iconic stature, the Holstentor of Lübeck is also famous for the fascinating history behind it, including the tales of its sieges and occupations, as well as its involvement in the trading activities of the city. This blog article will introduce readers to the history behind the structure, along with other interesting facts, information and a travel guide to make the most out of a visit to this important site.

Interesting Facts About Holstentor – Lübeck

1. The Holstentor is a 15th-century brick gate located in the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. It is a symbol of the city’s history and an often-featured sight in the town centre’s image.

2. The Holstentor is the last remaining gate of the four city gates which once surrounded Lübeck.

3. The two towers of the gate were erected in 1464/65, while the building around which they stand was added in the mid-19th century.

4. The towers each have four storeys and are 38 metres high.

5. The upper storeys are adorned with statues of 64 councillors, elected from the city’s elite.

6. The gate was severely damaged during World War II, but was repaired and opened in 1958.

7. The Holstentor is now home to the Lübeck Museum of Cultural History.

8. In 2013, the Holstentor featured on the reverse side of the € 2 coin, which was minted to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the City of Lübeck.

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History & Information About Holstentor – Lübeck

The Holstentor is a city gate located in the Free and Hanseatic city of Lübeck in northern Germany. It is one of the symbols of the city and has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The gate dates back to the city’s founding in the 12th century and is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Hanseatic League.

The present Holstentor was completed in 1478 by the master masons Fritz Back and Johann Ohm for the town’s council. It is constructed from brick, and is composed of two round towers connected by an arched passageway. The gate has four floors, with the bottom two designed as guard rooms and the upper two used for storage and sentry positions. The structure has been heavily ornamented and decorated, with the walls of the gate adorned with coats of arms of the free cities associated with the Hanseatic League.

The Holstentor is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the region and stands as a symbol of Lübeck’s rich past. In 2015, the Holstentor underwent a major restoration, which included the replacement of the wooden doors. Today, the gate remains in good condition and is open to visitors throughout the year.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Holstentor – Lübeck

1. Get to Know the Gate – Holstentor: Holstentor is a red-brick gate that stands tall above the old city of Lübeck. This iconic city landmark is a World Heritage Site and is an important symbol for the old Hanseatic city’s historical relevance. The gate was built in the mid-15th century and its rectangular shape made of red-brick has come to symbolize the city’s identity.

2. Enjoy a Walk Around Town: The old city of Lübeck is full of medieval and Gothic buildings, such as churches, abbeys, and merchant houses. Take time to explore them on foot and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets and paved alleys.

3. Visit the Holstenkirche Church: Just a short walk away from Holstentor, you’ll find the Holstenkirche Church, which has been carefully restored and kept in its original condition for centuries. It’s a beautiful sight to behold, and don’t forget to take some photos with its impressive facade.

4. Learn about the Maritime History in the Handwerkskammer Museum: When it comes to the history of the city, the Handwerkskammer Museum offers an extensive visual timeline of Lübeck’s maritime industry. This museum features handcrafted models of old ships and vessels as well as original pieces that tell the story of the city’s long-standing tradition and legacy.

5. Visit the Tuch & Technik Museum: Crafts and cutting-edge technology come together in this fascinating museum. On display are ancient looms and various craft tools that tell the story of the textile and clothing industry that was once the mainstay of Lübeck’s economy.

6. Enjoy a Relaxing Tea-house Session: There’s nothing like a relaxing session at one of Lübeck’s famous tea-houses. Here you can indulge in a variety of teas and cakes while basically watching time go by. Enjoy a quiet moment, right in the heart of the old city.

7. Delight in the Cuisine of Lübeck: Lübeck’s selection of restaurants and cafes offer some of the best flavors in Northern Europe. Sample local delicacies such as the marzipan cakes, or indulge in a few of the city’s fantastic seafood restaurants.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Holstentor – Lübeck

Q. What is Holstentor?
A. Holstentor is a medieval brick gate that is located in the city of Lübeck, Germany. It is considered a symbol for the city and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q. When was Holstentor built?
A. The Holstentor was built in the 15th century, beginning in 1464 and completed in 1478.

Q. What is the significance of the symbol inside Holstentor?
A. The symbol inside the Holstentor is the double-tailed lion of Holstein. This is a symbol of the city’s allegiance to the duchy of Holstein.

Q. Are there any tours available at Holstentor?
A. Yes, guided tours of the Holstentor are available from April to October. The tours take about an hour and a half and can be booked online.

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