Before finally moving back to Berlin we stayed a couple of days in Hamburg. From there we drove to Lübeck in northern Germany of all places. Why of all places? Well, when in Hamburg there are a lot of things to do and many other places to go see on a day trip. And here´s the reason behind our trip: There is a watchmakers shop that had exactly the watch Susanne was looking for. So off we went. Besides, I´ve never been to Lübeck and what better town to start our "Rediscovering Germany Tour" with?

Compared to its compact size, Lübecks old town has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture. Lübeck means hanseatic trade, historically it means independence and influental economic powerhouse, it means slawic beginnings, it means Buddenbrooks and above all it means marzipan. This famous almond paste is and has been produced elsewhere also, but its perfection, the right balance of almond concentration, sugar and chocolate covering has been created here in the old town of the river island. The city had its heyday in times of the Hanseatic League when it was rightly called the "Queen of the Hanseatic League". Of great importance was the cities trade line to Russias Novgorod. Not only was it one of the three biggest cities in Germany at the time but also a political heavyweight in the Baltic Region. In the course of time Lübeck couldn´t compete with changing trade routes and infrastructure, and some of its modern day decline is marvelously described in the great novel Buddenbrooks by Thomas Mann.

Nowadays Lübeck is a wonderful gem of a town. Despite heavy destruction during WW II it is able to show off its Hanseatic heritage and therefore it is always worth taking a stroll through its charming streets.

The Mecca of marzipan aficionados!

One of the trademark sights are the aisles and courtyards

which were created due to the islands restricted space.

A very typical Hanseatic Building that could have belonged

to a successful trader in the past.

Not only perfectly restored façades but also authentic wear

and tear give Lübeck a very sympathetic character.

Nordic heritage.

See more pics of Schleswig-Holstein.