Regions of Germany

Schleswig-Holstein
Schleswig-Holstein is a peninsula to the north of Germany bordering with Denmark. Bathed by the both the North and Baltic seas, this federal state has barely three million inhabitants and its economy is based on trade with the Scandinavian countries.

The region's main attraction lies in its varied and rich wilderness; such is the case of the "Wadden Sea National Park", the salt marshes, or "Holstein Switzerland", a set of lakes and valleys. The state's capital is Kiel, situated close to the sea where Gorch Fock, the school ship of the German Navy can be found. It houses important shipyards and every year "Kieler Week" is celebrated, consisting of various internationally famous sailing regattas.

The other city of the region is Lubeck, whose medieval buildings and structures have been listed as a World Heritage Treasure by UNESCO. The most interesting sights are found in the old quarter (Altstadt ), an oval shaped island formed by the waters of the Trave River and the old city moats. It is also worthwhile visiting the Helgoland, Sylt, Föhr and Amrun Islands, famous for their red cliffs, as well as the Schleswig area with its beautiful cathedral: here lies the Bordesholm altar, masterpiece of late Gothic images.