Uelzen

Uelzen stands on the Ilmenau in northern Germany. Around 1250 inhabitants moved from the older settlement of Oldenstadt to the river's west bank, and Duke John of Brunswick-Lüneburg granted the new town privileges in 1270. Its position on a continuation of the Old Salt Road helped its trade, and in 1374 it joined the Hanseatic League.

Uelzen hosted a Hanseatic assembly in 1470. Linen, grain, livestock, wax and pottery were among the goods associated with its commerce, while brewing became a major local occupation. A great fire in 1646 destroyed much of the town, which recovered slowly despite assistance and temporary tax relief.