UNESCO World Heritage status – a distinction that the Hanseatic city of Lübeck proudly carries

Since 1987, the historic center of Lübeck has been part of the exclusive circle of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This places it alongside global icons such as Machu Picchu in Peru, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, and the Taj Mahal in India. Lübeck was the first complete old town in Northern Europe to receive this significant recognition. But what exactly does it mean to be part of this prestigious heritage?

The recognition as a Cultural World Heritage site is based on Lübeck's unique cityscape, characterized by seven church towers majestically reaching into the sky. The pre-industrial building fabric of the city is exceptionally well-preserved, making the old town an outstanding example of Brick Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Lübeck's glorious past as a center of world trade. Additionally, Lübeck, with its distinctive appearance, symbolizes the Hanseatic family of cities in the Baltic Sea region.

The founding of the city dates back to the years 1143 and 1159, initiated by Henry the Lion. The basic urban architectural structures laid out at that time still exist today. Typical are the parceling and the row of gabled houses, as well as the characteristic high stepped gables and roof structures.

The old town, surrounded by water, embodies over 1,000 years of living history. Lübeck once stood synonymous with freedom, prosperity, and law. Even today, numerous monuments from the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicism periods, the narrow alleys and paths, churches and monasteries, bourgeois houses as well as craft courtyards and fortifications, testify to the former glory of the city.

To preserve this rich heritage, it is essential to act quickly and decisively as soon as damage to the historic buildings becomes visible. Through this care, we secure the treasures of our past for future generations.