Architecture in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is a state with a rich and changeful history. In the Middle Ages many historico-culturally significant structures were erected during the time of the prosperity of the Hanse and the subsequent epochs. They mark the face of our land and are a must for architecture enthusiasts.

In the 12th century red brick came to Germany and made triumphant advance in the North: Monasteries, convents, cathedrals and complete town quarters of baked clay brick soon emerged. The affluence of the Hanseatic merchants brought on a further construction boom. The town halls and the houses of middle-class citizens are genuine treasures. For that reason since 2002 the Hanseatic cities of Wismar and Stralsund have belonged to the UNESCO world cultural heritage.

Numerous architectural monuments were built by princes, aristocrats and estate owners of modern times. Their splendid palaces and manor-houses are often surrounded by remarkable gardens and park grounds.

A new chapter in the history of architecture in our state began with the discovery of the healing effect of salt water and the Baltic Sea climate. In 1793 Duke Friedrich Franz I of Mecklenburg-Schwerin founded the first German seaside resort in Heiligendamm. Tourism in the coastal area developed quickly and the "Weiße Stadt am Meer" ("White Town by the Sea") was soon followed by new, elegant seaside resorts. The seaside resort architecture attracts thousands of visitors under its spell and seduces them to enjoy a walk along the promenades.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is not only a holiday destination. The technical monuments of the towns and villages tell about the industrialisation, innovation and daily culture of our state. Sight-worthy tunnels and towers are to be found as well as bridges and power plants.