Hotel Seeblick Wendorf

Lindengarten

by Kathrin_E

The grounds of the former Swedish fortification on the eastern side of the old town was planted with linden trees and turned into a park in 1815. The paths along the moat and the pond are a place to rest and have a picnic.

There is history here, too. A tower than once belonged to the 15th century fortification is still guarding the entrance to the park. In 1682 a whim was built next to it and from then till the 19th century the tower was used as a water tower for the town’s water supply.

On the opposite side of the street, note the clock with a historical advertisement for a well-known washing detergent.

The Shipyards

by Kathrin_E

Wismar’s shipyards build medium-size container vessels. “Cynthia” was their latest ‘baby’, almost ready to set out for the oceans in June 2009. The huge pale-blue hall by the harbour serves as indoor dock.

The company feels the economical crisis, rumours about them being bankrupt are around. Since they are an important employer in town, let’s hope best for them.

Heilig-Geist-Spital – Hospital of the Holy Spirit

by Kathrin_E

“Hospitals” in former times were more old people’s homes than places where sick people were cured. A door in the back of the church allows a glimpse into the corridor of the old hospital building with the cells of the inhabitants built in timberwork.
The small 15th century church is a little gem. Its unique treasure is the painted wooden ceiling, dated 1687, that shows scenes from the Old Testament.

Location: Lübsche Straße

Old Town: The Pedestrian Malls

by Kathrin_E

Krämerstraße, Hinter dem Rathaus and Altwismarstraße are the city’s shopping streets and pedestrian zone. There is a lot of old architecture along these streets mixed with modern buildings. Here is the liveliest part of the city and the streets have smooth stone pavement instead of the usual cobblestone.

Wismar

by Kathrin_E

Time stood still in the Hansa city of Wismar. The well preserved old town covers a large area. There is still a lot of restoration work to do. Anyway, the pre-war ambience is still there.

Stroll through the side streets and discover. Photo options are at every street corner and even when you pass the same spot for the fifth time you will discover a new picture to take.

The town has maintained its medieval and early modern structure, including the old port basin and the canal that runs through the town. World War II bombs have hit the industrial areas and destroyed two of the three medieval churches but spared most of the old town. You may find more spectacular individual architectures in other Hansa cities like Lübeck or Stralsund. In Wismar, it is the ensemble that matters, and that made the town UNESCO World Heritage. To present some of those ensembles I wrote a few tips that describe entire streets.