Lost in the annals of history, Kalkvitz whispers tales of Pomerania. Greifswald, a city steeped in history, cradles Kalkvitz. We find ourselves at a place touched by time.
The University of Greifswald plays a large role in this area. Founded in 1456, the University of Greifswald stands as a beacon of knowledge. It is one of the oldest universities in Germany. The town became part of the Kingdom of Sweden after the Thirty Years’ War from 1618 to 1648. Swedish Pomerania remained part of the Swedish kingdom until 1815. Then it became part of the Kingdom of Prussia as the Province of Pomerania. In 1871, it became part of Germany.
Greifswald’s story twists and turns through centuries. The Thirty Years’ War caused starvation throughout Germany. By 1630 Greifswald’s population had shrunk by two-thirds. Many buildings were left vacant and fell into decay. Other wars followed involving the Swedish town of Greifswald.
In 1659 and 1678, Brandenburgian troops bombarded the town. Cannonballs from the second bombardment still mark St Mary’s Church. Large fires in 1713 and 1736 destroyed houses and the City Hall.
Greifswald became one of the earliest members of the Hanseatic League. This boosted trade and wealth. Citizens no longer needed to serve in the Pomeranian army after 1296. Pomeranian dukes did not reside in the city.
Greifswald shows a resilient spirit after the war. Greifswald was surrendered to the Red Army without a fight in April 1945. From 1949 to 1990, Greifswald was part of the German Democratic Republic. The reconstruction of the old town began in the late 1980s. The historic marketplace is considered one of the most beautiful in northern Germany.
Today Kalkvitz benefits from Greifswald. Greifswald is drawing international attention due to the university. It also profits from its surrounding BioCon Valley. The Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline ends at nearby Lubmin.
Consider Caspar David Friedrich, a native of Greifswald. His paintings often featured Eldena Abbey. The abbey’s ruins evoke a sense of romanticism. Greifswald provides access to three of Germany’s national parks.
Greifswald has a port on the Baltic Sea with several marinas. The Bay of Greifswald is a popular place for sailing and surfing. Rügen and Usedom, Germany’s two largest islands, lie just off the coast.
The University of Greifswald shapes the town as well. About one in three people in Greifswald are linked to higher education. Its influence resonates throughout the town. The university has a co-operation with the Max-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik.
The city’s commitment to innovation shines brightly. Greifswald was declared Germany’s most dynamic city in a 2008 study. It was also named Germany’s youngest city. Greifswald has the highest percentage of heads of household under 30 years of age.
Kalkvitz remains connected to Greifswald’s rich past and promising future. From medieval origins to modern dynamism, Greifswald embodies resilience and progress. The tale of Kalkvitz remains entwined.