Maps and statistics of Schleswig-Holstein
Schleswig-Holstein is the northernmost state of Germany, bordered by the North Sea to the west, the Baltic Sea to the east, and Denmark to the north. It covers an area of approximately 15,800 square kilometers and had a population of about 2.9 million residents as of the last census. The capital city is Kiel, a prominent maritime center known for its annual sailing event, the Kiel Week. Other notable cities include Lübeck, famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture and being a former leading member of the Hanseatic League.
The state has a rich history, shaped by its strategic location as a crossroads between Scandinavia and continental Europe. Schleswig-Holstein is known for its diverse landscape, which includes beaches, rolling hills, and the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique tidal flats.
Economically, the state is driven by sectors such as shipbuilding, renewable energy, particularly wind power, and tourism, thanks to its scenic coastal areas. Its cultural heritage reflects a mix of German and Danish influences, which is evident in local customs, cuisine, and language.