The Historic Centre of Stralsund

Situated between the Strela Sound and a number of lakes dammed up in the 13th century, the Baltic town of Stralsund has a unique island character that emphasises the medieval charm of its historic centre. As a member of the Hanseatic League, Stralsund played an important role in the rise of religious architecture and the Gothic brick-built style. The architectural heritage in the old town is typical of an established Hanseatic town during the trading alliance's 14th century heyday. Its medieval layout remains unaltered and illustrates how maritime trading towns were arranged under Lübeck law.