The Lüneburg 'Wasserviertel' (riverside quarter)

The wooden, copper-plated "Old Crane" on the Ilmenau is mentioned in documents dating back to as early as 1346. One of the last loads it lifted in the 19th century was a locomotive for the Braunschweig-Vienenburg line, which was delivered from England via the waterway. Today, you can view the Old Crane as part of a city tour. St. Nicholas' Church (Nicolaikirche) is the newest and smallest of the city's three Gothic churches. Lying in the Wasserviertel (riverside quarter), it was once the church of choice for the boatmen who populated this area. Most extravagant is its central aisle, with its eight-pointed stellar vault - which is unique in northern Germany. Due to numerous restorations, the church is largely characterised by19th century influences. The church tower, completed in 1587, had to be knocked down as early as 1831 because of its dilapidated condition. Its 98-metre-high, neo-Gothic replacement took until 1895 to complete. The church interior, however, has retained its beautiful, medieval character and harbours important Gothic painting and carving treasures. The church is open daily from 9am until 5pm.