Danische Strasse (Danish Street), Kiel

Danish Street is one of Kiel's most charming and historic streets, offering a rare glimpse into the city's past. Located just north of the Old Market, it is Kiel’s only street that retains an old-town feel, as it still features a handful of pre-World War II buildings. Among these is Warleberger Hof, the only surviving aristocratic estate from the early 17th century, which lost just five meters of its original front when the street was widened in the early 20th century.

The Historic City Museum is also housed along this street, surrounded by a mix of imperial-era residential and commercial buildings, many of which have been lovingly maintained by their owners. While gaps from the war were filled with post-war economic miracle buildings, the street has managed to preserve its historical charm, with ornate street lamps, candelabras, and traditional bollards reinforcing its classic character.

Danish Street has played a key role in Kiel's urban development since its foundation in 1242, when it served as the main route between the city market and the Danish Gate at Kiel’s northern edge. The name “platea danorum” appeared in city records as early as 1799, emphasizing its historical significance as the road leading toward the Duchy of Schleswig.

In 1973, Danish Street was converted into a pedestrian zone, transforming it into one of Kiel’s most exclusive shopping streets. Unlike many other commercial areas, it has no chain stores, instead featuring independent boutiques, local specialty shops, and cafés. A notable landmark at the street’s entrance is a cast-iron candelabra from 1856, originally donated to the Brick Pond and later electrified, serving as the last remaining piece of Kiel’s historic gas lighting system.

At the street’s northern end stands the Kilia Statue, a life-size bronze representation of Kiel’s city goddess, adorned with a wall crown, laurel wreath, and rudder, symbolizing wise governance and maritime strength. Created by Berlin sculptor Eduard Lürssen in 1889/90, Kilia originally decorated a fountain at Kiel Castle, but after surviving World War II, it was relocated to its present spot in 1977, where it continues to watch over this storied and elegant street.