If you’ve managed to read all the wonderful pages available here on MyGermanCity.com, you might have noticed time and time again the word “Burg.” Generally when you see it, you’d automatically think of a castle — but not this time. It’s also a marvelous town in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania — which is named for its castle.
So, what do we discuss first — Burg Stargard the castle, or Burg Stargard the town?
As the town was named for the medieval castle, let’s talk about the massive complex originally built in the 12th century. There are almost a dozen buildings that comprise the castle, and the donjon is probably the most recognizable of its structures (it is the town’s landmark after all), and popular for its Local History Museum. Though I fell in love with the arched windows of the castle’s 13th century chapel.
Hey, what can I say… I’m not normal. But if you want some normal fun, then the Burgenlauf (Castle Run) in August might be a good start. This time, though, I’ve chosen a nighttime flashlight tour — a great way to spend a November evening.
No big deal if the weather’s too chilly that time of year for you. You can come for the Fisherman’s Festival in August, or the Mittelaltertag (Medieval Day) at the castle in September, or the Burgfest (Castle Festival) in August.
Yes, I’m aware that I listed those out of order (it hurts my German way of thinking), but I was too excited to go exploring around the countryside to care. From March to October you can ride the toboggan run, careening down the mountainside at a distance of 30 meters in altitude around no less than eight curves.
That might be too much excitement for some people, so you’re more than welcome to stick to the 4-marked cycling trails, the 2-marked hiking trails, swim at one (or all) of the nearby Mecklenburg Lakes, or take a horseback ride. Trust me, no one will judge you for taking it slow.
Holy mackerel, I got so excited about the outdoorsy stuff I almost left out my favorite subject — history! Oh wait, maybe not since I already told you about the castle. But there’s also a pretty City Church (built 1758 over an older one), and you can visit the Marie Hager House — a 20th century painter who once lived here.
It’s easy to see why she might’ve been inspired to create — but I’m too busy at the nearby Tierpark (zoo) with the kangaroos and Berber monkeys to put anything on canvas.
OK, maybe it was the wine since Burg Stargard is said to be the “northernmost wine growing region in Germany.”
Sweet. History and wine and fun things to do? Burg Stargard, you’re my new best friend. ;-)