Lübeck

<h2>Queen of the Hanseatic League</h2><p>Founded in 1143, Lübeck proudly stands as the "Queen of all the Hanseatic cities" and was the first German city on the Baltic coast. Its entire island-shaped Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stunning ensemble of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture that speaks to its glorious past as a wealthy and powerful trading hub.</p><h3>Iconic Skyline</h3><p>The city's famous silhouette is characterized by the seven spires of its five main churches, which rise proudly above a labyrinth of winding alleys and beautiful, hidden courtyards. The most famous landmark and symbol of the city is the Holstentor (Holsten Gate), a formidable late-Gothic city gate with two massive round towers that once formed part of the city's fortifications.</p><h3>Architectural Masterpieces</h3><p>Another architectural highlight is the St. Mary's Church (Marienkirche), a masterpiece of Brick Gothic design boasting the world's tallest brick vault. The church served as a model for about 70 other churches in the Baltic region. The Town Hall (Rathaus) is one of the most beautiful in Germany, with its distinctive black-glazed bricks and Renaissance additions.</p><h3>Marzipan Capital</h3><p>Lübeck is also famous for a much sweeter reason: Lübeck Marzipan. This almond-based confection has been a city specialty for centuries, and its quality is even protected by an EU directive. According to local legend, marzipan was invented in Lübeck in 1407 during a famine when bakers were ordered to make bread from almonds, creating marci panis (almond bread).</p><h3>Literary Heritage</h3><p>The city has a rich literary tradition, being the birthplace of Thomas Mann and Günter Grass, both Nobel Prize winners in Literature. The Buddenbrookhaus, former home of the Mann family, is now a museum dedicated to the famous novel set in Lübeck.</p><h3>Living History</h3><p>Today, Lübeck successfully balances its role as a modern city with the preservation of its extraordinary heritage. The historic center remains largely car-free, allowing visitors to wander through centuries of history on foot, discovering hidden courtyards, historic merchant houses, and charming cafes serving, of course, marzipan cake.</p>