Bremen – a city in-between Hanseatic tradition and modernity

In the mediaeval times, it was an important harbour and emporium. Becoming large as a city-republic in tradition of traders and business, the non-attached Hanseatic city Bremen could retain its autonomy as a federal state till this day. In the city centre, we find the ancient market place with the magnificent town hall, not to forget the statue of Roland (local hero) and the world-famous town musicians (a fairy tale of the Brothers Grimm). Boettcherstrasse (Cooper street), once Handwerkergasse (Craftsman alley), is situated in a side road.

Today it is an artistic and cultural centre as well as a highlight of the culture history. A fondly restored Old Town quarter is the “Schnoor”. In the Middle Ages, a district of  river-fishermen, craftsmen and businessmen, today a place with exquisite shops, nostalgic pubs, restaurants and cosy cafés. The maritime Bremen takes place, only a few metres away at the “Schlachte”, the promenade at the river. Here do the Old and Young meet, here one sits at the water in the summer and drinks one’s beer or get spoiled in one of the numerous pubs.

The modern Bremen has accomplished the alteration from the seaport to the innovative service- and high-tech-location. The aerospace industry is one of the biggest employers here and in the periphery of the university are a multiplicity of young concerns and institutions settled. The “Ueberseestadt”, “The overseas city” emerges from the former dockland area. This is an area of 300 hectare floor space, where the University of Arts as well as wind energy businesses and many creative individuals have settled down. Where, in former times, coffee was stored, there are now loft offices with a view to the port basin and the Weser.

Here, the traditional strengths of the Hanseatic city combine with future technologies as well as modern services with art and culture. And if you want to have fun, one likes to meet in the liveliest district, the Ostertor – which is affectionately called “das Viertel” by the inhabitants of Bremen. Here, extraordinary stores invite one to shopping tours. HomeCompany has got their office here and here one can let the day die away in various pubs and restaurants, after knocking-off time.