You can't fail to be impressed by the magnificently decorated Weser-renaissance façade of the Rathaus, which has stood on the marketplace since 1405. The Upper Hall, with its series of paintings depicting stories from Bremen's past, the model ships suspended from its ceiling and the opulent "Golden Chamber" with its stunning Art Nouveau interior created by local artist Heinrich Vogeler, are all unmissable sights within the Town Hall itself. And the cellars of the Town Hall are home to yet another treasure: the largest collection of German wine in the world is hidden in its vaults. 1,200 different wine varieties are stored here in the "treasure chamber", the oldest vintage dating back to 1653.
The Roland statue keeps watch over the market place from a commanding position in front of the Rathaus. This 10m high statue of the famous knight was erected in 1404, making it one of the oldest of its type. Roland granted trading and city rights to Bremen and represents freedom. For this reason, the statue gazes straight out towards St. Peter's Cathedral, as a symbol of Bremen's status as a free city. Both the statue of Roland and the Rathaus were formally awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2004.
Read more