Schwerin is the capital of the German federal state of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania. With only just 100,000 inhabitants Schwerin is Germany’s smallest state capital.

In the city and near surrounding are 12 lakes. Landmark of the town is the Schwerin castle that was until 1918 main residence of the Mecklenburg Dukes and Grand Dukes. Since 1990 the castle is seat of the states parliament.

Schwerin was first mentioned in records in 1018 and has received town rights in 1160. Excavations at its market square show that the city was already settlement centuries ago. At excavations findings of tools dating back to 1000-600 B.C. were made. It is known that during the first century A.D. this area was settlement to Teutons, since there was found a Germanic well dating back to this time.

Climate

In summer mild Baltic climate is prevailing which causes some warmth even in autumn.

Places of interest

Main attractions in Schwerin are of course the lakes in and around the city. From the landing stage of the white fleet near the castle you can cross over to the island Kaninchenwerder in Lake Schwerin.

For children and animal lovers a visit to the Schwerin zoo can be recommended. On an area of 25 hectares are 2400 animals of 154 species at home. Natural enclosures and richness in species make this zoo one of the most important zoos in Germany.

Craft

Craft work in Schwerin can be found in the city’s environs. Here Mecklenburg‘s straw pictures, folkloristic compositions of realistic style, are produced.

More information: http://www.schwerin.de/?internet_navigation_id=1066

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