1597 A humble house stands firm. Its sturdy frame whispers tales of centuries past. This is Groβ Parin a village steeped in history. This unassuming building is the oldest structure in Groβ Parin a testament to the village’s enduring spirit.
Groβ Parin has a rich history dating back to a Wendic settlement. The name Parin itself derives from a Wendic word meaning “by the stream” or “by the swamp”. After the conquest of Wagria in 1138/39 some Wends abandoned their homes. They moved west founding a new village also called Poryn. To distinguish them the older settlement became “Dudeschen Poryn” (German Poryn). The newer one was called “Wendischen Poryn” (Wendish Poryn). Over time these names evolved. “Dudeschen” became Groβ (large) and “Wendischen” became Klein (small) creating Groβ Parin and Klein Parin.
In 1326 Groβ Parin was first mentioned in official records. In 1337 the Lübecker Bishop acquired the village managing it through the Hobbersdorf hunting grounds. In 1586 it passed to the Lübeck Cathedral Chapter. The transfer was part of a larger agreement. Following the dissolution of the Lübeck Cathedral Chapter in 1804 Groβ Parin became part of the Principality of Lübeck. This brought it under the rule of the Dukes of Oldenburg. This meant from 1810 to 1814 it was a French enclave. Then in 1934 Groβ Parin was incorporated into Bad Schwartau. Finally in 1937 the Greater Hamburg Act integrated Bad Schwartau and Groβ Parin into the district of Eutin in the province of Schleswig-Holstein.
Hidden within Groβ Parin are the remains of a 13th-century castle. The castle was built by knights Siegfried and Otto von Buchwald. What remains is a motte-and-bailey castle. It is a protected archaeological site. The castle hill has a diameter of about 20 meters. Its walls and moat are still partially visible. It’s a significant part of Groβ Parin’s past.
A Bismarck oak stands tall near the former school. Planted in 1895 it honors Otto von Bismarck. The stone at its base bears the inscription “BISMARCK” and “1895”. A short distance away on Pariner Berg sits the Bismarck tower. The Bismarck tower offers stunning views of Lübeck Bay. The tower is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the landscape. The area is known for its tranquility and natural beauty. Groβ Parin truly offers a blend of history and scenic charm. The old houses are unique to the area. The region also boasts the Roter Pariner apple. It’s a local winter apple with red skin and white flesh.