Rathouse in Greifswald, Germany

The 16th-century Rathouse (City Hall) in Greifswald, northeastern Germany, is a prime example of Nordic Renaissance architecture.

Its deep scarlet color was obtained when ox blood was added to the stucco, not only giving it a distinctive hue but protecting the wood and stucco against weathering.

We visited this port city during a Baltic cruise aboard the Frederic Chopin with Peter Deilmann Cruises (Alexandria, VA; 800/906-0790)

— ARTHUR & JEAN THOMAS

Florham Park, NJ