Neubrandenburg, often called Germany’s hidden medieval gem and proudly known as the “City of Four Gates” (Stadt der Vier Tore), is a captivating destination in northeastern Germany, nestled in the scenic Mecklenburg Lake District of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Founded in 1248 by the Margraves of Brandenburg as a fortified outpost, this third-largest city in the state (with around 65,000 residents) boasts one of the best-preserved medieval Brick Gothic defensive systems in northern Europe. Its nearly intact 2.3 km city wall, standing about 7 meters high and featuring a double rampart, encircles the historic center. The star attractions are the four magnificent medieval gates from the 14th and 15th centuries:
Friedländer Tor (the oldest and most complex)
Stargarder Tor (with its striking gable and intricate tracery)
Treptower Tor (the tallest and most representative, now home to the Regional Museum)
Neues Tor (the youngest, built after 1450)
These gates, along with the wall’s Wiek houses (former guard extensions now housing shops, galleries, and cafes), create an authentic medieval atmosphere that’s perfect for leisurely walks or cycling.