Neubrandenburg

Neubrandenburg was founded in 1248 by the margraves of Brandenburg near Lake Tollense and became part of Mecklenburg in 1292. Its walls and brick gates enclosed a town that grew as a regional centre of trade. It also represented other Mecklenburg towns at the territorial assembly as one of the duchy's principal towns.

The Thirty Years' War brought devastation. In 1631 imperial and Catholic League troops under Tilly stormed the Swedish-held town; many soldiers and inhabitants were killed and buildings plundered. From 1701 Neubrandenburg formed part of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, where it remained a significant town in the largely rural duchy.