Schwerin

Capital of the Land (administrative region) of Mecklenburg–West Pomerania, Germany, on the western shore of the lake of Schwerin; population (1995) 117,200. Products include machinery, foods, and chemicals. Formerly the capital of Mecklenburg and earlier of the old republic of Mecklenburg–Schwerin, Schwerin became capital of Mecklenburg–West Pomerania with the reunification of Germany in 1990.

The historic streets and squares of the old town have been restored and rebuilt since World War II. The cathedral (14th–15th century) is a fine example of German brick-built Gothic architecture. The ducal palace (1845–58) was modelled on the French chateau of Chambard. The Museum of Prehistory and Early History occupies one wing of the palace, and the park preserves the character of a baroque pleasure garden. The old town contains the Neo-Renaissance Mecklenburg State Theatre (1883–86). The State Museum contains work of Flemish and Dutch masters of the 17th and 18th centuries.