Pfaffenteich

Northern Germany


Schwerin's central lake was created by a dam in the 12th century. Through the centuries it was surrounded by some of the city's most elegant buildings. At the southwest corner, the vividly orange Arsenal dates from 1840. You can cross the waters on a small ferry that makes four stops.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Northern Germany attractions

1. Arsenal

0.18 MILES

Schwerin's vividly orange arsenal dates from 1840 – its facade is these days more impressive than threatening.

2. Schleswig-Holstein-Haus

0.22 MILES

The restored 1737 Schleswig-Holstein-Haus contains a gallery that features changing contemporary art exhibitions.

3. Schelfkirche

0.22 MILES

Just north of the Schelfstadt is the early-18th-century baroque Schelfkirche. It's not usually open to the public, except for services.

4. Schwerin Dom

0.27 MILES

Above the Markt, the soaring Gothic Dom is a superb example of north German red-brick architecture. You can climb up to the viewing platform of its 19th…

5. Rathaus

0.33 MILES

The bustling Markt is home to the Rathaus. It's quite a sober affair, something that the castle-like crenellations do little to alter.

6. Half-Timbered House

0.35 MILES

A walk southwest of the Rathaus to the appropriately named Engestrasse (Narrow Street) brings you past a lovely example of the city’s earliest half…

7. Galerie Alte & Neue Meister

0.54 MILES

Revel in the Flemish masterpieces collected by the Mecklenburg dukes during the 17th and 18th centuries at this impressive museum with wide-ranging…

8. Schloss & Gardens

0.66 MILES

Gothic and Renaissance turrets, Slavic onion domes, Ottoman features and terracotta Hanseatic step gables are among the mishmash of architectural styles…