The city of Stade on the river Niederelbe is surrounded on all sides by water, the moat and the old harbour facilities. The Schwinge, runs through Stade, it is a little river, which connects the city with the Elbe, in the early days the lifeline of the Hanseatic city to international trade.

Alas, Stade didn't become a modern large seaside city. The medieval harbour in Stade's old town was preserved. Today, the Schwinge is still a natural river and the Elbe landscape in the Stade area has kept its natural charm.

The St. Cosmae church tower, is with its Baroque silhouette the city's landmark: Coming from the Holzhafen, one can see it from its best side. You will see history at every turn. Please, do risk more than just a look.

Our walkabout through the old Stade, brings back memories of long gone times. You will see splendid old houses and in the background St. Cosmae, first mentioned in the year 1132. The present church building St. Cosmae et Demiani originated in the late 13th-century. Inside, there is a Huß-Schnitger-organ - the Vincent-Lübeck-organ - named after its most important organist.

Knechthausen, Bungenstr. 20/22 was originally the guildhall of the brewer-servants. Stade's oldest inn with its pretty vestibule has been preserved. By the way, the brewer servants, still act as pallbearers in their old traditional costume.

Church St. Wilhadi: Named after the Frisian and Saxon missionary , Bremen's first bishop. The present building is a three-aisled Gothic hall-church from the 14th-century. Especially remarkable inside: The organ by Erasmus Bielfeldt from Bremen from 1734, also the altar and pulpit from 1660.

Hardly any other city in German's north celebrates more or attractive festivals. Medieval markets, local and shooting festivals, flea markets across the whole old town. Meetings with international partners, for example, with the Swedish friends, culture and show-events. The Stader know how to celebrate and love being together with their guests.

You will experience old alley ways and idyllic corners, where the past is still alive.