4 Old Ruins to Explore in Schleswig-Holstein

Burgtor is a magnificent introduction to the architectural heritage of Luebeck. It is a great place to start a walking tour of the well-preserved Gothic landmarks in the UNESCO-protected Luebeck Old Town. Admire the intimidating presence of Burgtor, discover its artistic features and browse exhibits that explain its historical importance.

Glücksburg Castle is one of the most important castles in North Germany - rested on the water, it is built on an old monastery and once housed important dukes and nobility. The castle is now a museum and is no longer inhabited by the ducal family. It is owned by a foundation. The original furnishing means that visitors get a real experience of the castle as it was once used.

Gottorf Castle was built by the Bishop of Schleswig on an island at the end of the Schlei Fiord just outside the city of Schleswig. In 1268 it was taken over by Duke Erik I of Schleswig and it remained in the possession of the Dukes until 1713. One of the oldest iconic buildings in this area which is beautifully carved and also maintaining its beauty today. It is situated on an island in the Schlei, about 40 km from the Baltic Sea.

Plön Castle is one of the largest castles in the north German state of Schleswig-Holstein and the only one located on a hill. It was once a military academy and a boarding school, now it is home to an opticians training centre. Visitors can explore the huge grounds surrounding the castle, admire the many lakes of the region, explore the nearby city, or even take a castle tour and find out about its use today and its historical role.