Braunschweig, the town of Henry the Lion, is the largest town in south-eastern Lower Saxony and the region's cultural and commercial centre. Well-known organisations and companies are based here, including the Frauenhofer Institute and the Schimmel piano factory. The numerous local attractions are divided into five areas known as "islands of tradition", each of which has its own unique character. St. Blasius' cathedral, the old Gothic town hall and Castle Square (Burgplatz) with its lion statue, are all well worth a visit.Castle Square and Lion Statue
In the 12th century Castle Square (Burgplatz) was rebuilt and extended by Duke Henry the Lion. You can still find evidence today of the medieval layout. The square is bordered by Dankwarderode castle, former residence of Henry the Lion, as well as the cathedral, the neo-classical Vieweg house and half-timbered buildings. In the centre of this historical square is a replica of the town's most famous monument - the bronze lion statue which the Duke had erected as a symbol of his power and jurisdiction. The original statue, the first free-standing monument of the Middle Ages, can be seen in Dankwarderode castle.St. Blasius' cathedral
The cathedral of St. Blasius can be found in Castle Square. Henry the Lion had it constructed on his return from the Crusades. In 1195 he was buried next to his wife Mathilde in the central nave of this triple-naved vaulted basilica. The tombs made from Triassic limestone are considered to be highly significant works of medieval stone sculpture. Another important piece on display in the cathedral is the Romanesque wooden crucifix by Imervard, the master woodcarver. Today the cathedral is the venue for many different concerts and events.Old Town Hall
The old town hall is one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture in Braunschweig and consists of two wings which were constructed at right angles to each other. Inside the building, embedded into one of the pillars, is the "Braunschweig yardstick" which was mainly used by drapers to measure cloth. The balcony of the Gothic building is decorated with nine pillar figures which represent the Ottonian and Guelphic emperors, kings and dukes, and their wives.