Museum Holstentor, also called Holsten Gate, is the brick city gate at the western edge of Lübeck's old town. It was built between 1464 and 1478 and has two round towers, an arched passage and the Brick Gothic style typical of northern Germany. Inside, the city's history museum tells the story of the Hanseatic League and its trade, with a model of the city as it looked around 400 years ago. You can walk around the outside for free, then go in for the exhibits and the view from the upper floors.
From city gate to museum
The Holstentor was the gate where the land routes from the north and northwest reached the city, and it formed part of the western gate complex. Most of the city fortifications of that era were demolished in the mid-19th century, but the gate survived. In 1863 a single vote decided its fate: the city chose to restore it rather than tear it down. The city's history museum has occupied the building since 1950.
Above the archway runs the Latin motto Concordia domi foris pax, which means concord at home, peace abroad. Two lions stand at the entrance, and the small ornamental towers on the top of the facade are typical of North German Brick Gothic.
Inside the museum
The permanent exhibition, The Power of Trade, follows the Hanseatic League and Lübeck's rise as a merchant city. A model shows how the city looked around 400 years ago, which helps you match the streets outside with the town of the past. Medieval weapons and armour are also on display.
One hall covers Veliky Novgorod, a city that kept close business ties with the Hanseatic League in the late Middle Ages. Information is given in German and English. The upper floors have small windows with views over the old town, a useful way to get your bearings before you walk out.
Visiting the gate
The entrance, lift and restroom are wheelchair accessible, and so is the car park, though it is paid. There is a restaurant on site. The museum suits children, as the medieval setting and the models give them plenty to look at. Plan on about 45 minutes indoors, and allow more time if you also walk the old town.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, entry to the museum is paid. A combined ticket covers several Lübeck museums, so check which ones it includes before you buy. You can walk around the outside of the gate without paying.
How long do you need?
Plan on about 45 minutes inside the museum. Allow more time if you also want to walk around the old town.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, the elevator and the restroom are wheelchair accessible, and so is the car park.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes, booking tickets in advance is recommended.
What is inside the Holstentor?
The city's history museum. Its permanent exhibition, The Power of Trade, covers the Hanseatic League and Lübeck as a merchant city, with a model of the city around 400 years ago.
