Peitz – Prussian places of remembrance

Town fire and demolition

A mighty fortress dominated the townscape of Peitz for many years. But a town fire and the demolition of the fortress on the orders of Frederick II had a lasting impact on the town’s building structure in the 18th century.

Urban redevelopment under Frederick II.

After the fire and demolition, the Prussian king and his authorities initiated the reconstruction of the town: the stones from the former fortress were used to build new town houses. Mulberry trees were planted on the levelled ditches and ramparts of the demolished fortress for the breeding of silkworms. From 1770 onwards, Frederick II also recruited Saxon clothiers, who helped the town flourish.

Traces in the townscape

Friedrich’s building activities still dominate the Peitz townscape today. Luisenruh manor house built for the Peitz bailiff still survives from this period, for example. The only evidence that remains of the former mulberry plantations today is the street name Plantagenweg. The ironworks and fishing museum bears witness to the history of the town.