Wolgast

Wolgast stands on the Peenestrom opposite the island of Usedom. A Slavic settlement and castle stood on an island in the channel; a planned town later grew on the mainland. Its town law was confirmed in 1282, and from 1285 Wolgast served as a residence of the dukes of Pomerania. Their palace on Castle Island became the seat of Pomerania-Wolgast.

The town became part of Swedish Pomerania in 1630. In 1713 Russian forces burned Wolgast during the Great Northern War, leaving only a few buildings and churches standing. The town hall was rebuilt in Baroque style. Following Sweden's withdrawal in 1815, Wolgast became part of Prussia.