Lüneburg was one of the most prosperous cities in northern Germany during the Middle Ages, owing much of its wealth to the production and trade of salt, often called "white gold." By the twelfth century, the city had become an important economic and political center within the lands of the Welf dynasty, attracting merchants, nobles, clergy, and travelers from across the region.

In The Last Rune of Rungardvik, Lüneburg serves as the setting for a pivotal turning point in the story. Historically, it stood at the crossroads of power, where alliances were forged, rivalries settled, and the fortunes of noble houses could change in a single day.