Things To Do in Hameln

Hameln's most historic building is the Gothic Münsterkirch, at the end of Bäckerstrasse, overlooking the Weser River. Other attractions include the Rattenfängerhaus , with frescoes illustrating the Pied Piper legend, and the Hochzeitshaus (Wedding House) on Osterstrasse, with its three attractive gables. The finest houses in the town are built in what is known as Weser-Renaissance style. You can admire these nicely sculpted late-16th-century houses as you stroll along the pedestrians-only streets. One of the best examples of the Weser-Renaissance style, which can be enjoyed by looking at its facade, is Dempterscheshaus, built in 1607. This house, at Pferdemarkt, standing in the middle of town, has protruding bay windows. This patrician building is also characterized by fine chiseled stones and decorations of ornaments and coats of arms.

There are lots of opportunities to buy folkloric art objects here. One of the best bets for souvenir and gift hunting, Renner, Am Markt 6 (tel. 05151/94420), has some genuinely charming objects. You might also want to go window-shopping along the town's best shopping streets, the Osterstrasse and the Bäckerstrasse.

The town's Weserbergland Festhalle, Rathausplatz (tel. 05151/916220; www.theater.hameln.de), hosts an array of concerts, opera and ballet performances, and theatrical productions. Call the theater or the visitor information office for upcoming events and ticket information. Tickets are 10€ to 26€.