Hildesheim is a city in the German state of Lower Saxony, just south of Hanover, and is characterised by beautiful half-timbered houses, cultural attractions, great shopping opportunities and the bucolic surrounding countryside. Within the town centre, you will find the two Romanesque churches that are grouped together as a World Heritage Site. St. Michael’s Church and St. Mary’s Cathedral are located right next to each other and both date back to around 1,000 years ago. The former is home to interesting art and artefacts from the Middle Ages, whilst the latter features intricate bronze castings in the form of the Bernwardian Door and Christ's Pillar.

As well as these castings, which were produced in one piece, St Mary’s has a mysterious and legendary rose bush growing within its apse. On the other hand, St. Peter’s offers fantastic panoramic views from the top of its steeple. Climb the 364 steps to the viewing platform and you can look out over Hildesheim from 75 metres high.

Although 90% of the city’s historic quarter was destroyed during WWII, many of the streets remain intact and offer a window into the past. Other attractions include the charming market square; the ‘Upended Sugarloaf’ building; the Roemer-und-Pelizaeus Museum, with its ancient Egyptian and Peruvian exhibits; and the Theatre for Lower Saxony.

Images courtesy of Nina Weymann Schulz, Ina Funk and Leif Obornik from Hildesheim Marketing.