Discover Brunswick's Historic Charm

Brunswick, known as Braunschweig in German, is a city in Lower Saxony, Germany, that dates back to medieval times. It was founded by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony, a member of the Welf Dynasty, who is commemorated by the famous 12th-century bronze statue of a lion, the Brunswick Lion, which has become a symbol of the city.

Brunswick boasts a well-preserved Old Town (Alte Stadt) with many heritage buildings, including the Burgplatz, a square surrounded by historic buildings such as the cathedral, a reconstruction of Dankwarderode Castle, timber-framed houses, and the guild hall. The city is also known for its shopping destinations, such as the Palace Arcade (Schloss-Arkaden), and its numerous museums, including the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, which is one of the oldest art museums in Europe.

Other notable attractions in Brunswick include the Old Town Market (Altstadtmarkt), the Hagenmarkt square, the Magniviertel quarter, the Staatstheater (State Theatre), and the botanical gardens. The city is also home to several parks, such as the Prinz-Albrecht-Park, and is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it a great base for day trips to explore the surrounding area.

Visit the Burgplatz square, home to the Brunswick Lion statue and other historic buildings

The Burgplatz square is a great place to start your visit to Brunswick. Here, you will find the Brunswick Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Blasius, and the Dankwarderode Castle, a Saxon lowland castle that was once the residence of the Brunswick dukes. The castle now houses the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, which displays a variety of treasures and medieval objects.

At the centre of the square stands the iconic Brunswick Lion statue, a Romanesque bronze statue of a lion created in 1166. It was commissioned by Henry the Lion, the ruler of Saxony and later Bavaria, as a symbol of his power and jurisdiction. The original statue is now located inside the Dankwarderode Castle museum, along with information about the myths and legends associated with it.

The Burgplatz square also features attractive historic buildings such as the Huneborstelsches Haus, a beautiful old townhouse built in 1536 that now serves as a guildhall. The square is surrounded by picturesque half-timbered houses, including the Gildehaus (Guild House), which is the seat of the Craftsman's Association.

The Brunswick Cathedral is an attractive Romanesque and Gothic structure completed in 1175 during the reign of Henry the Lion. It houses the tomb of Henry and his wife Mathilde, a masterpiece of Late Romanesque sculpture. The cathedral also boasts a four-and-a-half-metre-high, seven-branched candelabrum presented by Henry the Lion, and the Imerward Crucifix from 1150, the oldest item in the cathedral.

In addition to the castle and cathedral, the Burgplatz square offers a diverse programme at the Braunschweig State Theatre. The open-air stage, set between the old brick walls, exudes a unique charm.

Explore the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, one of Europe's oldest art museums

The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum is one of Europe's oldest art museums, founded in 1754. The museum is named after Anthony Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel, who acquired the majority of the high-class collection. The museum is based on the Schloss Salzdahlum art collection of Anthony Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg (1633–1714).

The museum houses an important collection of Western old master paintings, with a focus on Northern European art from the Renaissance onwards. Artists in the collection include Cranach, Holbein, Dürer, Van Dyck, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Rarities include single works by Vermeer, Giorgione and Rosso Fiorentino. The museum also has a strong collection of Italian majolica ceramics, French enamel paintings, and Eastern Asian artworks.

The print room is of international importance, with over 100,000 prints and 10,000 drawings. The museum also features temporary exhibitions of art from around the world.

The museum building was opened in 1887, designed by Oskar Sommer in the Italian Renaissance style. The historical building was closed for seven years for renovations and reopened in 2016.

Discover the medieval St Blasii Cathedral, featuring Romanesque and Gothic architecture

St Blasii Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Blasius, is a must-see for anyone visiting Brunswick. Founded by Henry the Lion in 1173, the cathedral showcases a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Located on Burgplatz, opposite Dankwarderode Castle, it has been a significant religious site for centuries.

As you approach the cathedral, you'll be greeted by its impressive Romanesque exterior. Stepping inside, you'll find yourself in a spacious nave, where the eye is drawn to the tomb of Henry the Lion and his wife, Matilda of England. The limestone statues on their tomb, created between 1230 and 1240, are an idealised representation of the couple, adding a touch of artistic elegance to the space.

But the true highlight of St Blasii Cathedral is its architectural diversity. Completed in 1175, the structure combines Romanesque and Gothic elements, making it a unique example of medieval architecture. The nave, with its Romanesque wall paintings, showcases the Romanesque style, while the high choir, with its Gothic influences, adds a sense of height and grandeur.

In front of the choir, you'll find a massive seven-branched candelabrum, presented by Henry the Lion himself. This candelabrum is one of the largest of its kind and dates back to the 1170s. It stands as a testament to the cathedral's rich history and the power of its founder.

In addition to its architectural grandeur, St Blasii Cathedral also boasts several important artworks. The oldest and most notable piece is the Imerward Crucifix, dating from 1150. This wooden crucifix is a masterpiece from the second half of the 12th century and is one of the few remaining works by Master Imervard.

The cathedral is also the final resting place of several notable individuals, including Emperor Otto IV and his wife, Beatrix. Their tombs, located in front of the choir, are adorned with brass from 1707, adding to the cathedral's historical significance.

St Blasii Cathedral is not just a place of worship but also a testament to the history and artistic prowess of medieval Germany. Its architectural diversity, intricate artworks, and association with powerful figures make it a must-visit destination when exploring the charming city of Brunswick.

Stroll through the Magniviertel quarter, known for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses

The Magniviertel quarter is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Brunswick, dating back to the 11th century. It is a charming area filled with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, which survived World War II with minimal damage. This quaint neighbourhood is a great place to stroll and explore, offering a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historic architecture.

As you wander through the quarter, you'll discover a variety of unique shops, boutiques, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. The area is known for its local artisans and craft vendors, making it the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts. Behind St. Magnus' Church, you'll find a collection of quaint boutique shops and galleries, as well as charming cafes and restaurants nestled along the cobblestone streets.

The quarter is also home to the annual Magnifest, held every September. During this festive event, the streets are closed to car traffic, and the neighbourhood transforms into a vibrant celebration with food stalls, band stages, and artisan vendors. It is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

In addition to its charming streets and festivals, the Magniviertel quarter also boasts some significant historical landmarks. At the heart of the neighbourhood sits St. Magnus' Church, a finely restored Protestant church that was consecrated in 1031. The church is known for its beautiful interior and the old graveyard, where famous German writer and philosopher GE Lessing is buried.

Nearby, you'll find the remains of the oldest part of Braunschweig, with its distinctive half-timbered houses. This area provides a stark contrast to the Dr. Seuss-like Rizzi-Haus, with its whimsical architecture and bright, multicoloured exterior.

The Magniviertel quarter is a must-visit destination when exploring Brunswick, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and local charm. Whether you're strolling through the cobblestone streets, browsing the boutiques, or enjoying a meal at a local cafe, you'll be surrounded by the unique character and charm that makes this neighbourhood so special.

Shop at the Schloss Arkaden, a modern mall housed within the reconstructed Braunschweig Palace

Schloss Arkaden is a bustling mall housed within the reconstructed Braunschweig Palace (also known as Braunschweiger Schloss or Braunschweiger Residenzschloss) in the centre of the city of Brunswick (Braunschweig in German). It is a must-visit when in the city.

The original palace was the residence of the Brunswick dukes from 1753 until 1918. However, after suffering heavy damage in air raids during World War II, it was demolished in 1960. The current building was opened to the public in 2007 and combines the reconstructed palace facade with a modern shopping mall.

The Schloss Arkaden mall boasts over 150 shops and stores, attracting locals and tourists alike. The mall is spread across three floors, with a unique palatial facade that makes it stand out from typical shopping centres. The former castle's interior has been transformed into a vibrant shopping experience, with a glass-covered courtyard and a mix of high-street brands and restaurants.

In addition to its shopping offerings, the Schloss Arkaden also houses the Braunschweig public library and the Schlossmuseum. The Schlossmuseum boasts original 19th-century furniture, paintings, and artwork, providing a glimpse into the palace's rich history.

The reconstructed palace is a stunning example of how old and new can blend seamlessly. The attention to detail in the reconstruction is remarkable, with the west facade being a faithful recreation of the original palace's facade. The building is a testament to the city's ability to preserve its historical heritage while also embracing modern developments.

So, whether you're a history buff, a shopaholic, or simply someone who appreciates unique architecture, a visit to the Schloss Arkaden is definitely worth your time.

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