Bremen, the cosmopolitan city on the Weser river, looks back on 1,200 years of history. Although the grand old buildings around the market square betray its roots as an ancient trading centre, Bremen has the feel of a thriving city on the up. Besides its cosmopolitan appeal, Bremen offers a journey back through the centuries, full of monuments to a distinguished history and bristling with enthralling stories. There are pretty little houses lined up like pearls on a string, donkeys that shake hands and a cathedral under close observation.Two of Bremen's most famous landmarks are the magnificent Weser Renaissance town hall and the grand old statue of Roland on the historical market square. They have been an emblem of independence since 1404. The town hall and Roland enjoy UNESCO World Heritage protection, while Bremen Cathedral, the Schnoor (Bremen's oldest quarter) and Böttcherstrasse with its unusual red-brick architecture are all unparalleled in their historical charm. A tour of the most notable sights does not even require a map, as 2,000 brass and steel studs guide visitors from Liebfrauenkirchhof to Böttcherstrasse via the market square and the Schnoor quarter.