Many of Luebeck’s medieval landmarks survive, including two of the original town gates and the monumental church of St. Mary, whose iconic towers dominate the skyline. The young J. S. Bach made frequent visits to the church to polish his technique under the tutelage of its famous organist, Buxtehude.
Another of Luebeck’s famous sons is the influential novelist Thomas Mann, who was descended from one of its original Hanseatic families - portrayed in his groundbreaking first novel, “Buddenbrooks”. The city also claims to have invented marzipan, and is still a major producer of this popular Christmas treat.