Germany · Schleswig-Holstein, Holstentor

The issue launched the German 2-euro series “Bundesländer” in 2006. In this series, each of the 16 Länder was to be represented by a characteristic building. The sequence was generally based on the rotating presidency of the Bundesrat. Schleswig-Holstein held the presidency of the Bundesrat during the relevant period and therefore stood at the beginning of the series. The coin thus had not only a regional connection but also a federal political background: the Bundesrat represents the Länder in the legislation and administration of the Federation as well as in matters concerning the European Union.

The Holstentor was built in the 15th century as part of Lübeck’s fortifications. It secured the western landward access to the city in the direction of Holstein. The late Gothic brick structure consists of two round towers and a gate building between them. Its massive walls and gun openings facing the outside served a defensive purpose. At the same time, the elaborately designed complex demonstrated Lübeck’s economic and political aspirations.

These aspirations were based above all on Lübeck’s position in Hanseatic trade. The city was a central transshipment point between the North and Baltic Seas and played a leading role within the Hanse. Through its merchants and trade connections, salt, grain, fish, timber, cloth and other goods, among others, reached various regions of Europe. The brick Gothic style typical of northern Germany shaped numerous churches, town halls and fortifications in the Baltic region.

In the 19th century, large parts of Lübeck’s fortifications were demolished because they had become militarily obsolete and obstructed the city’s development. The preservation of the gate was also disputed for a time. In 1937, Lübeck lost its state independence through the Groß-Hamburg-Gesetz and was incorporated into the Prussian province of Schleswig-Holstein. After the Second World War, this became the present-day Land. The building thus connects Lübeck’s independent Hanseatic past with its later affiliation to Schleswig-Holstein.