One of the largest cities not only in Germany, but also in the European Union, Hamburg traces its history back to the 5th century AD. Its growth was associated with the development of sea routes and the city was the main water gateway to Germany. The center and suburbs of Hamburg are always full of tourists who want to touch the fascinating past of the "Free and Hanseatic City".
From the heroes of the old days
Northern Germany is famous for its magnificent castles built during the Middle Ages:
- At the end of the 16th century, a majestic Renaissance castle was erected in the town of Ahrensburg. Its construction took over 20 years. The snow-white castle stands on an artificial artificial island, next to it are houses for the villagers, a school for their children, a mill and a church. The graceful fortress, surrounded by a moat, can be reached by crossing the bridge, and today there is a museum exposition in its halls, demonstrating the invaluable furnishings and utensils of bygone times.
- Bergedorf Castle is located in this suburb of Hamburg on the banks of the Bille River. Its construction began at the end of the 16th century and continued with interruptions for almost 200 years. A small island in the middle of the river is connected to the banks by bridges, and the magnificent park around the red stone building is the perfect example of landscape design. The most enjoyable way to get to Bergedorf in the summer is to take a river tram ride along the Elbe branches through the locks.
- Duke Adolf I ordered the cleaning of the old pond in Rheinbeck and the construction of a Renaissance castle in its place. This happened in the 16th century and since then this suburb of Hamburg has invariably attracted the attention of travelers. The elegant building has a cultural center and, in addition to visiting the usual excursion, guests can rent a castle for any celebration - from a wedding ceremony to an anniversary feast.
In the lists of UNESCO
Lübeck is not officially a Hamburg suburb, but its proximity to Germany's second largest metropolis gives the traveler the opportunity to take a day trip there and get to know the interesting past of one of the four free Hanseatic cities.
The historic center of Lübeck is under the auspices of UNESCO, and its main architectural sights are undoubtedly very interesting and significant.
The miniature fortress of the 15th century, called the Holstein Gate, is a famous symbol of Lubeck. Today it houses a historical museum, the exposition of which tells in detail about the glorious past of the Hansa trade union, which had business relations with Veliky Novgorod.