**Profile**

**Country:** Germany
**City:** Görlitz
**Population:** approx. 55,000
**Province:** Saxony
**Size in km²:** about 67.2
**Distance to the Capital:** approx. 200 km (to Dresden)
**Elevation:** about 199 meters
**Founded:** around the year 1071
**Official Language:** German

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**Poem:**

Görlitz, a city on Neisse's banks,
with ancient streets and towers ranked.
Through walls and stones flows history’s strain,
its charm and magic, like sun and rain.

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**Travel Guide: Görlitz – A Historical Gem and Cultural Hub**

Görlitz is a city of breathtaking beauty, capturing the visitor's gaze with its historic charm on the banks of the Neisse River. As you enter the city, the old town welcomes you with winding alleys, grand facades, and a sense of time travel. Yet, Görlitz is not only a gem of architectural preservation but also a vibrant city with a rich cultural pulse and a multifaceted history dating back to the 11th century. From its medieval beginnings as a thriving trade center to its modern-day role as an international film set, Görlitz’s legacy is one of resilience and reinvention.

### History

The origins of Görlitz can be traced back to around 1071 when the area began developing into a significant trading hub. Located along the Via Regia, a vital medieval trade route, Görlitz grew into a prosperous city. The wealth of these days is still evident in the city’s ornate buildings and architectural marvels, giving it a lasting reputation as the "Pearl of Upper Lusatia." The architectural prosperity of the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance eras is especially prominent here, creating an enduring testament to Görlitz’s economic and cultural flourishing. Even through the 19th and 20th centuries, Görlitz remained a cultural crossroads, continuously adapting to the changing tides of history.

### Location and Geography

Geographically, Görlitz lies in Germany's far eastern corner, right on the border with Poland, divided by the Neisse River, which serves as a natural border. The city sits at the foot of the Lusatian Mountains and is surrounded by scenic landscapes that blend urban charm with rural tranquility. From gentle hills to the lush meadows along the Neisse, Görlitz's surroundings captivate nature enthusiasts and city explorers alike.

### Unique Character

What sets Görlitz apart is its nearly untouched historic cityscape. With over 4,000 preserved historical buildings, Görlitz boasts one of Germany's largest protected architectural zones. The streets are lined with Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings, while churches and towers give the city its distinctive skyline. Numerous restorations and renovations have helped Görlitz remain one of Europe’s most beautiful old towns.

### Must-See Sights

Görlitz is a city of remarkable landmarks. The imposing St. Peter’s Church, with its unique towers and Sonnenorgel (Sun Organ), is a must-see. The old town boasts the Lower Market and the Schönhof, one of Germany's oldest Renaissance buildings. Another fascinating site is the Holy Sepulchre, a replica of Jerusalem's Holy Sepulchre. The town hall with its astronomical clock also draws many visitors each year.

### Culture and Museums

The city’s cultural life is rich and vibrant. The Stadthalle, a grand hall built during the Gründerzeit, is a popular venue for concerts and theatrical performances. The Baroque House on Neisse Street houses the Cultural History Museum, offering insights into the city's and region's history. The Silesian Museum captures the essence of life in Silesia and the intercultural dynamics of this region.

### Prominent Figures

Görlitz has given rise to some well-known figures, such as the poet Jakob Böhme, whose mysticism and philosophy continue to inspire. Actress Gudrun Ritter and painter Oskar Kokoschka are also among those who have contributed to Görlitz's cultural heritage.

### Local Specialties and Markets

Görlitz’s cuisine combines tradition with variety. Particularly recommended are "Lausitzer Leinölquark," a curd dish enriched with regional linseed oil, and the beloved Silesian poppy strudel. Görlitz's weekly markets showcase fresh, regional produce and are a must for anyone wanting to experience the local atmosphere. The market stalls in the historic square offer everything from fruits and vegetables to artisanal goods.

### Leisure: Cycling, Hiking, and More

Görlitz is an ideal starting point for active travelers. The surrounding region offers fantastic options for hiking and cycling. The Oder-Neisse Cycle Path runs along the German-Polish border, offering breathtaking views of the Neisse and the surrounding landscapes. Hikers will enjoy the nearby Zittau Mountains or Königshain Hills, where gentle slopes and forests provide peaceful retreats.

### Nightlife

The nightlife in Görlitz is small but charming. Cozy pubs and stylish bars fill the old town, providing welcoming places to unwind. Café Central and Barockbar are popular spots for night owls and often feature live music or readings. Görlitz's laid-back nightlife is perfect for culture lovers and those who enjoy a relaxed evening atmosphere.

### Annual Festivals

The Old Town Festival in August attracts numerous visitors and transforms Görlitz into a lively stage filled with performers, musicians, and artists celebrating within the medieval walls. The Silesian Christmas Market also enchants visitors during the Advent season, filling the old town with nostalgia and holiday spirit.

### Surrounding Attractions

There is much to see around Görlitz as well. The nearby city of Zittau, with its historic churches and unique Fastentuch (Lenten Cloth) exhibit, is well worth a visit. The Oberlausitz Heath Nature Park and Zittau Mountains are scenic areas that invite visitors to explore the great outdoors. Additionally, just a few kilometers away lies the baroque Krobnitz Castle, a hidden gem ideal for a day trip.

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Görlitz’s tranquil beauty harmonizes past and present in a way that makes each corner a new discovery, waiting to be shared and remembered.