The Musik- und Kongresshalle in Lübeck is a popular meeting place in the Hansestadt, the largest event center in Schleswig-Holstein, and a beacon in the Hamburg metropolitan region. Created by internationally renowned architect, Meinhard von Gerkan, it unites the congress center, the concert hall as well as the city and exhibition hall. Every year more than 300 events are held by cultural lovers and experts from science and industry. Located directly on the Trave and the old town, the MuK has developed into a venue of international standing. As a concert hall, it has made a name for itself beyond national borders. International stars are enthusiastic about engaged visitors as well as the acoustics celebrated by connoisseurs as being world class. The MuK is a venue for the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Hanseatic City of Lübeck and the NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra. In addition, in the summer months it serves as the main center of the SHMF.