Esslingen Castle has been the city’s most recognizable landmark for almost 700 years. It was built originally in the 13th century and enhanced in 1519-1531. Preserved elements in the Old Town of the corresponding city wall include the Schelztor, the Pliensauturm and the Wolfstor. The castle is open to the public, and the famous Dicke Turm has also recently reopened for visits by guided tours. The ascent of more than 300 steps rewards visitors with a unique view over the city.
Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.
Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.
There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.