Thursday, February 24, 2011

Goslar, Germany - May 12, 2010

During the cold war, Goslar was part of Eastern Germany and host to a huge army camp. After reunification the camp was dismantled and the city suffered serious economic disruption as a result. Even today, unemployment is high and the city, which has invested enormously in the development of tourism to rebuild revenues, was fortunate to make the World Heritage listing in 1992.
Just south of town is Rammelsberg, a 2000 foot high mountain, housing a mine that was in continuous operation for more than 1,000 years before its closure in 1988. During its life, 30 millions tons of ore containing Copper, Gold, Lead, Silver and Zinc were removed.
Goslar has been home to Neolithic man, the Saxons, the Holy Roman German empire, Reformation, Enlightenment, German Nationalism, Emancipation, Militarism, German Imperialism, Democratization, the Nazis, Soviet dictatorship and, as of 1990, reunification with the west.
The Imperial Palace was built in the 11th century and served as a summer residence for German emperors. The cathedral was built at the same time, but only the porch survives, the rest having being torn down in 1820.
The city is a regional shopping center with department stores, supermarkets and boutiques as well as a weekly farmer's market. Goslar is also the ancestral home of the Siemens family, founders of the eponymous international conglomerate. For additional snapshots, click here.

1 comment:

Bean said...

they can keep their statues!!