Even today, Stralsund and Wismar give an impression of what medieval Hanseatic cities looked like. For this they were recognized as a world heritage site 20 years ago. That’s celebrated.

Stralsund (dpa/mv) – 20 years of World Heritage status for the old towns of Stralsund and Wismar: This will be celebrated on Monday. 200 guests are expected at the celebrations in the Kulturkirche St. Jakobi in Stralsund, as the city announced in advance. 20 years ago, both old towns were included in the World Heritage List. The historical inner cities are regarded as prime examples of medieval Hanseatic cities.

Stralsund and Wismar draw a positive balance after two decades of world cultural heritage. Around 90 percent of the buildings in the old town of Stralsund and 95 percent in Wismar have now been renovated. More people live in the old towns today and the number of tourists has doubled. Wismar and Stralsund are celebrating their joint anniversary with a whole year of celebrations under the motto “Two cities – one heritage”.