Glückstadt is a tranquil little town on the Lower Elbe with almost 12 000 inhabitants. The place is known far beyond its borders as "Matjes city". Every year in June, the "Glückstädter Matjeswochen" begin, attracting thousands of visitors. This delicacy is served and enjoyed all year round in several restaurants.

The Danish king Christian IV founded Glückstadt in 1617 as a counterpole to Hamburg, which at that time was far from having its present significance. However, the historical development and the too shallow fairway through an upstream sandbank left Glückstadt small and quiet. However, the city gained importance as a port of call for whalers to Greenland and herring loggers in the North Sea and Atlantic.

The original layout as well as the historic old town are still preserved today. The harbor has been lovingly restored in recent years and today, in addition to the market place, is the main attraction for visitors. The traditional Danish buildings at the harbor are in their unity one of the longest historical row of houses in Northern Germany.

Glückstadt residents are proud of their "Pearl on the Lower Elbe", which was officially named a "resort" in 2011. As part of the competition "City Build. City live. "Was also awarded the Glückstädter inland port once again. Under 1985 submissions from 15 federal states were awarded 30 awards.

The historic city center, the small streets and the location at the mouth of the Elbe in the North Sea give Glückstadt its special charm. The ambience is rounded off by galleries, studios, museums and palaces. And last but not least, the excellent Glückstädter cuisine. A sight to see are the old sailing ships in the inland port, - including the "Rigmor", the oldest operating traditional ship in Germany.

"The sound of a son and then his luck", then sound good luck city "had once proclaimed King Christian IV. And it has succeeded; because the city has remained true to its historical charisma.