Wehlau

Wehlau lies where the Alle joins the Pregel, on the site of an old Prussian fort. The Teutonic Order fortified and settled the place, granting town rights in the 1330s. It became known for its horse trade and fairs, while a Franciscan monastery and the church of Saint Jacob gave shape to its religious life.

Fire destroyed much of Wehlau in 1540, leaving the church standing, but the town was rebuilt. Its population spoke several languages: in 1623 the local teacher was required to know Polish and Lithuanian. In 1657 Brandenburg and Poland concluded the Treaty of Wehlau here, recognising Elector Frederick William's sovereignty over the Duchy of Prussia. The agreement marked a decisive change in the duchy's relationship with the Polish Crown.