Happy TravellerWelcome to Wittstock, a charming town located in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin district of north-western Brandenburg, Germany. Nestled in a terminal moraine landscape south of the Mecklenburg Lake District, Wittstock is a hidden gem that boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Wittstock and reveal why this enchanting destination should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Wittstock resulted from a Slavic settlement and was first mentioned in the deed of formation for the Bishopric of Havelberg in 946. The name is possibly derived from vysoka (high-lying) in the language of the local Polabian tribes, it was later Germanized into Wiztok (1271), Witzstock (1284) and Witstock (1441), adapted folk-etymologically to Low German witt (white) and stock (rootstock). Obtaining the Stendal town charter on 13 September 1248 from the hands of the Havelberg Prince-bishop Henry I, it is one of the oldest towns of Brandenburg.
The town’s main historic monument is the Brick Gothic St Mary’s Church, dating back to c. 1240. Significantly enlarged as a hall church in the late 13th century and repleted with a carved altar by Claus Berg, it was used as a cathedral by the Havelberg bishops. The Bishop’s Castle was greatly restored in the 1990s and today houses a Thirty Years War museum. Much of the elaborate late medieval defences still surround the old centre, including a 13th-century gate tower, the Daberburg bergfried north of the town, and a 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) long city wall. The walls height, originally 11 metres (36 ft), today is about 4 to 7 metres.
Wittstock is also home to Wolfe Wittstock, a motorcycle speedway club that competes in Polish 2nd Division (3rd level of the Polish league system). The town is twinned with Höganäs in Sweden (since 2004) and Uetersen in Germany (since 1990).
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Wittstock has something for everyone. So why not book your trip today and discover the magic of this charming town for yourself?
