As a naval base, Kiel sustained more bombing than most German cities during the Second World War.

And it so happens that the oldest building to survive the destruction was a noble residence built for Frederick III, Duke of Holstein-Gottorp in 1616. 

Warleberger Hof is the kind of townhouse that was once found all over the Altstadt, and has a sandstone portal, painted stucco ceilings, silk wallpaper and murals from a plush makeover in the 18th century.