Other UNESCO world heritage sites

In 2011, the living monument Fagus Factory in Alfeld was the first modernist industrial building to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. It was the initial work of Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius. The factory represents an architectural concept that for the first time took into account the need for light, air and clarity and used glass and steel in a brand new construction style. Visit the Fagus-Gropius exhibition and the multimedia UNESCO visitor center to learn more about the World Heritage Site. Factory tours allow you to take an exciting look behind the scenes.

Hamburg's Speicherstadt was built between 1885 and 1927 in the historicist style and is one of the world's largest interconnected warehouse complexes. With its design, the Kontorhaus district is an impressive example of modern architecture from the early 20th century. The neighboring districts have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015.

Cologne Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. The foundation stone was laid in 1248 and the church was finally completed in 1880, 632 years later. The most impressive works of art include the high altar, the reliquary for the bones of the three kings and the largest existing cycle of stained glass windows in Europe from the 14th century. The cathedral has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

Marienburg Castle (Malbork) was built by German knights from 1270. The castle was badly destroyed during the Second World War, but was rebuilt at the end of the 1950s. The fortress impresses with its “unique architectural value”, according to UNESCO when it was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1997. It was the center of power of the monastic state of the Teutonic Order and is the largest brick castle in the world.

The first wattle hedge was used as early as 1650. The technique became most widespread in the 19th century. No additional wood is required for wattle hedges. They also provide firewood, nuts and foliage to feed livestock. Due to the centuries-long continuation of this regional tradition, the Nieheim wattle hedges were recognized as intangible cultural heritage in 2018.