Bremen has been molded by a thousand years of history. The city became the seat of a bishopric in 787, and in 965 was granted market rights by Emperor Otto I and Archbishop Adaldag. Ever since the 13th century, the people of Bremen fought for free access to the sea, securing the Weser River and establishing their independence from their own bishops and foreign princes. Her citizens wanted independence and self-determination. This love of liberty is still symbolized by the Gothic statue of Roland, traditional Bremen landmark, erected in 1404.

Today the magnificent Bremen Marktplatz still brims with monuments that have made the city famous. The Rathaus (Town Hall) world-renowned for its Renaissance facade; the Schütting merchants' guildhall; and St. Peter's Cathedral, whose cornerstone was laid in 789 at the behest of Charlemagne.

In Bremen's oldest quarter, the Schnoor district, little 15th and 16th century houses are lined up shoulder to shoulder. Found in its charming twisting lanes are artists' studios, goldsmiths' workshops and galleries. Past and present flow seamlessly together in Bremen. This is prominently demonstrated by delightful Böttcherstrasse - a unique, world-famous architectural ensemble.

Bremen owes its international flair not only to the harbors with their links to all the world, but also to aerospace technology, science, research - and, not least of all, a rich cultural life.