Places of interest: ramparts of Greifswald

To see a series of large photos of the ramparts just click here!

www.greifswald-infoweb.de

places of interest

ramparts

Greifswald´s medieval fortifications were built soon after the foundation of the town in 1250. A wall, water filled moats and ramparts which surrounded the town served to protect the inhabitants of Greifswald from a sometimes hostile environment. Nevertheless, the town was damaged several times by enemies. In 1627 Catholic League troops under the command of the famous general Wallenstein even occupied Greifswald.

Seeing that the fortifications limit the municipal area and do not prevent the town from being damaged or occupied the people of Greifswald started the gradual dismantling of the town wall in the 18th century. The ramparts were turned into a promenade planted with trees. The demolition of the last town gate concluded the dismantling of medieval fortifications in the 19th century. However, parts of the town wall have not been torn down. Walking along the beautiful ramparts you can still see them today.

ramparts

A walk along this promenade is indeed worthwhile. It is about 2 km long and leads you from the university canteen to Greifswald´s small zoo. Without being disturbed by cars you can have a different look at the town centre of Greifswald. There is also a nice view of the tower of St Nicholas´ Church from a promenade bridge near the central complex of the university.

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