About
Goslar is a town in Germany, set at the foot of the Harz Mountains. It is a UNESCO World Heritage imperial town, and its old centre makes a good base for a slow, walking visit rather than a quick stop.
The old imperial town
Goslar has a history of more than a thousand years as a former seat of the Holy Roman Emperors. That past is still visible in its streets. The town's main draw is the Kaiserpfalz, the Imperial Palace, which stands as the centrepiece of the historic core and gives the visit its sense of purpose.
Around it, the historic market square is lined with half-timbered buildings, the timber frames and plaster typical of older German towns. The square is also known for its Glockenspiel, a chiming clock that draws visitors to watch it play.
Mining and medieval streets
Goslar's wealth once came in large part from mining in the nearby Harz, and that heritage is part of what earned the town its World Heritage status alongside its architecture. The medieval streets are well preserved, so wandering between the squares, churches and old houses is a central part of the experience.
What to expect:
- Architecture: half-timbered houses and a compact medieval centre that is easy to explore on foot.
- History: the Kaiserpfalz and the town's long ties to the imperial era.
- Setting: the Harz Mountains close by, giving the town a green backdrop.
Goslar suits visitors interested in history, architecture and small-town atmosphere. Plan for a day or more, and allow time to pause in the market square, where the Glockenspiel and the timber-framed façades are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
