Historic Centres of Stralsund and Wismar in Germany

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
German World Heritage Foundation
Hansestadt Stralsund (german only)
Hansestadt Wismar, Ihr Portal für Tourismus, Kultur und Wirtschaft in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (german only)
Two Cities - One Heritage
UNESCO Commission of Germany

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2002
Size of heritage: 168 ha
- Buffer zone: 448 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 13,085°
Latitude: 54,303°

Summary

The medieval towns of Wismar and Stralsund, on the Baltic coast of northern Germany, were major trading centres of the Hanseatic League in the 14th and 15th centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries they became Swedish administrative and defensive centres for the German territories. They contributed to the development of the characteristic building types and techniques of Brick Gothic in the Baltic region, as exemplified in several important brick cathedrals, the Town Hall of Stralsund, and the series of houses for residential, commercial and crafts use, representing its evolution over several centuries.

Location on Map

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Historic Centres of Stralsund and Wismar

The Historic Centres of Stralsund and Wismar, located in the State of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern), Germany, are two remarkable examples of well-preserved medieval towns that played a significant role in the Hanseatic League. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are not only a testament to the region's rich history but also serve as living cultural landscapes that continue to thrive today.

History

The history of Stralsund and Wismar dates back to the 13th century when they were established as trading settlements. As members of the Hanseatic League, a powerful alliance of merchant guilds, these towns flourished as major trading hubs in the Baltic Sea region. The wealth accumulated through trade allowed for the construction of magnificent buildings and the development of a unique architectural style known as the Brick Gothic.

Throughout the centuries, Stralsund and Wismar faced numerous challenges, including wars, fires, and economic decline. However, their resilience and determination to preserve their cultural heritage have ensured their survival. Today, these towns stand as living witnesses to the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the medieval era.

Current State

The Historic Centres of Stralsund and Wismar have been meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to experience the charm and grandeur of the Hanseatic period. The towns' architectural ensemble, characterized by red-brick buildings, narrow streets, and spacious market squares, creates a unique atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

Stralsund, situated on the Strelasund sound, boasts an impressive collection of Gothic buildings, including the iconic St. Mary's Church and the City Hall. The town's fortifications, which include the famous city wall and several gates, are remarkably intact. The Gorch Fock I, a historic sailing ship turned museum, is also a popular attraction in Stralsund.

Wismar, located on the Baltic Sea coast, is equally captivating. The Market Square, surrounded by stunning gabled houses, is the heart of the town. The Wasserkunst, an ornate Renaissance fountain, stands as a symbol of Wismar's prosperity. The St. George's Church and the Nikolaikirche are notable examples of the town's architectural treasures.

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Tribseer Damm 78
18439 Stralsund
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 8:00 - 18:00
Weekend: 14:00 - 17:00

Videos from the area

Stralsund in 60 secs | UNESCO World Heritage

Published: August 22, 2012
Length: 00:53 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: DW (English)

Stralsund was awarded World Heritage status together with Wismar in 2002. They are unique examples of how Hanseatic towns looked at the height of the League in the 14th century.

Hansestadt Stralsund Seehafen Hafen - auch Urlaub und Erholung Entspannung an der schönen Ostsee

Published: October 27, 2013
Length: 25:55 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Veronika Meyer

Einige Impressionen vom Seehafen, auch eine Idee für Urlaub und Erholung an der Ostsee. - mein youtube http://www.my-youtube.de.

Stralsund Marienkirche und Ruegenbruecke - with epson moverio bt-200

Published: October 31, 2014
Length: 20:20 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Flug Hund

http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St.-Marien-Kirche_%28Stralsund%29.

Züge - Eisenbahn - Stralsund - german trains

Published: August 01, 2014
Length: 37:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Klassiker im Netz - Oldtimer - Fun und Meer

Für alle Fans von Zügen. Mitten im Zentrum von Stralsund rollen mehrere Züge in der Stunde über das Gleis. Impressionen von Regios, ICs, Güterzügen und der Usedomer Bäder Bahn. Viel Spaß!!!