Readings

Book Launch with Author Rolf Gruel

Thursday, 13/08/2026 / 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM / Kulturforum Schleswig-Holstein-Haus

Schwerin. The Journey from a Fishing Village to a World Heritage City

Rolf Gruel discusses the centuries-long interplay between the city and the ruling house. The focus is on Schwerin’s unique status as a “city before the castle” and later as a “city before the palace”—a relationship that has significantly shaped the development of the royal seat since the city’s founding in 1160.

The book traces how dukes and grand dukes exerted direct and indirect influence on architecture, culture, administration, and urban design over the course of centuries. The high point of this development was the 19th century, with the construction of today’s Schwerin Castle and the completion of the ensemble comprising the palace, castle, and gardens.

In addition to well-known periods of growth—such as those under Johann Albrecht, Friedrich Wilhelm, or during the Friedrich-Franz era—the author also sheds light on lesser-known connections and visual sources. After tracing this historical path, the book bridges the gap to the present: Schwerin’s historical heritage is understood as the foundation for its current UNESCO World Heritage status and interpreted as a commitment to the responsible stewardship of its cultural assets.

A book for anyone who wants to discover Schwerin as a historically grown royal seat and cultural city.

The Author:

Rolf Gruel, born in Schwerin in 1933, studied in Berlin and Hamburg and has lived in Kiel since 1964. He worked as a vocational school teacher for three decades. Yet during his vacations, he was always drawn back to his old hometown. He also expressed his love for his homeland through his work on various video projects about Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Born and raised in Schwerin, he wishes to pay special attention to his favorite city with this volume.

All statements without guarantee.