This is where the life of the old town takes place: Lübeck’s market square. The historic square was first mentioned in 1156 when pagan tribes held their Thing here. In the Middle Ages, too, markets and gatherings were held regularly on the market square. In the course of the centuries the square was extended more and more by different buildings. The Ratskeller (Council Cellar) under Lübeck’s City Hall can be traced back to 1220. During an air raid on Lübeck in 1942, the market square including St. Mary’s Church was severely destroyed. However, after several decades, the original setting of Lübeck’s market square could be restored almost true to the original through extensive restorations.
