Our region – rooted in history, shaped by changing times

Potsdam-Mittelmark looks back on a rich and diverse history that remains tangible to this day. From the medieval "Media Marchia" (Middle March) to the era of Prussian rule and the administrative reform of recent decades – the region's development reflects a unique blend of tradition, transformation, and progress.

Media Marchia - the Mittelmark in the Middle Ages

The origins of the region date back to the Middle Ages, when the area became known as Media Marchia (Middle March) – the central and most important part of the Margraviate of Brandenburg. Thanks to its strategic location, the region saw the construction of prominent castles and palaces, such as Ziesar Castle and Wiesenburg Castle. These were not only built for protection but also served as centers of power and culture. Monasteries like Lehnin Abbey shaped the religious and cultural life of the area and remain important historical landmarks to this day.

Order & progress : The Prussian legacy

After the incorporation of the southern parts of today’s district into the Kingdom of Prussia in 1815, the region underwent profound transformation. Prussia laid the foundation for a powerful infrastructure, reflected in paved roads, railway lines and structured administrative units. Manor houses, tree-lined avenues and village centers bear witness to an agriculturally shaped era that continues to influence the region’s landscape. At the same time, generous parks and landscaped gardens were created – such as the Wiesenburg Castle Park, which is still considered an oasis of tranquility and beauty.

New administrative boundaries : Structural change in the GDR

With the reorganization of district borders in 1952, the three districts of Belzig, Brandenburg-Land and Potsdam-Land were established in the area of today’s district. This division remained in place until the territorial reform of 1993. The cities of Brandenburg an der Havel and Potsdam remained independent and developed into autonomous centers of considerable economic and cultural importance.

 

 

  • Historic fortress

    Eisenhardt Castle

    Eisenhardt Castle towers above the town of Bad Belzig and stands as a testament to the region’s fortified past. Today, it is a cultural landmark and a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the Middle Ages up close.

  • Seat of power

    Ziesar Castle

    Ziesar Castle was an important bishop’s residence in the Middle Ages and impresses with its well-preserved architecture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the religious and political history of Potsdam-Mittelmark.

  • Romantic gem

    Petzow Castle

    Petzow Castle combines architecture and landscape design into a truly unique setting. Its surrounding park invites visitors to take relaxing walks and offers glimpses into life in past centuries.

  • Idyllic nature

    Fläming landscape

    The Fläming region, with its forests and wide fields of rapeseed, is a haven of peace and a paradise for nature lovers. The picturesque scenery reflects the region’s deep connection to nature.

  • Spendid retreat

    Wiesenburg Castle

    Wiesenburg Castle is a Renaissance masterpiece surrounded by a magnificent landscape park. It embodies the historical significance and beauty of the region.

     

  • Delicious tradition

    Asparagus harvest in Beelitz

    The Beelitz asparagus harvest is renowned far beyond the region and symbolizes the agricultural diversity of Potsdam-Mittelmark. These fresh products stand for quality and culinary enjoyment.

  • Timeless half-timbered charm

    Old town of Treuenbrietzen

    The old half-timbered houses in Treuenbrietzen reflect artisanal tradition and the charm of times gone by. They invite you to explore the town’s historic atmosphere.

Growing together : The formation of the present-day district

The current district of Potsdam-Mittelmark was established in 1993. It was formed by merging the former districts of Belzig, Brandenburg-Land and Potsdam-Land as well as several municipalities from the former district of Jüterbog. The new administrative seat became the town of Bad Belzig. With the election of the district council on December 5, 1993, a new era began – one shaped by the gradual coming together of different regions.

 

 

 

Tradition & Innovation : Uniting past & future

Today, Potsdam-Mittelmark represents a successful balance between tradition and progress. Historic town centers are being carefully restored while modern infrastructure projects – such as broadband expansion and sustainable mobility concepts – are being actively developed. The region remains true to its heritage while looking confidently toward the future.

 

 

History of the district

Discover more fascinating details about the district’s past in the brochure "A historical look back at Potsdam-Mittelmark".

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5 administrative offices, 9 municipalities, 5 towns. One district.

  • Office Beetzsee

    Located north of Brandenburg an der Havel, the Office of Beetzsee is named after the glacial lake of the same name. A paradise for water sports enthusiasts, the Beetzsee also offers rich flora and fauna in protected landscapes. The town of Pritzerbe, more than 1,000 years old, was once the seat of the bishops of Brandenburg and holds historical significance.

  • Office Brück

    Situated between the Fläming and Havelland regions, the Office of Brück is characterized by meadows, fields and expansive pine forests. In addition to its scenic beauty, the area also has economic significance through its industrial zones, which contribute to regional development.

  • Office Niemegk

    Located in the Hoher Fläming, the Office of Niemegk impresses with forests and a varied hilly landscape. Popular attractions include Rabenstein Castle and the monastery ruins from the 13th and 14th centuries. Nature lovers can try their hand at fishing at the trout farms Werdermühle and Komthurmühle.

     

  • Office Wusterwitz

    Set in the idyllic Havelland region, the Office of Wusterwitz and its lake are popular excursion destinations. The area offers a wide range of options for water sports, cycling, and hiking.

  • Office Ziesar

    The town of Ziesar stands out for its medieval castle complex and the 13th-century fieldstone church. In the traditional craft village of Görzke, visitors can watch potters at work.

  • Municipality of Groß Kreutz (Havel)

    Groß Kreutz (Havel) enchants with wide meadows, orchards, and wetlands along the Havel. Punt boat rides or hikes in the Götzer Berge hills are especially appealing. A replica of Sanssouci Palace can also be found here.

  • Municipality of Kleinmachnow

    Located directly at the southern city limits of Berlin, Kleinmachnow features a blend of historic villas and modern residential areas. The old village church from the 16th century and the Dreilinden area are part of the municipality.

  • Community of Kloster Lehnin

    Surrounded by forests and lakes, the municipality offers recreational opportunities at Klostersee and Netzener See. Cultural highlights include the famous Cistercian monastery, the school museum, and historic landmarks such as Reckahn Castle and the clay ovens of Emstal.

  • Municipality of Michendorf

    Unspoiled moors, swamp forests, and river landscapes shape the image of Michendorf. It is also home to the Nuthe-Nieplitz Nature Park office, where the Nuthe and Nieplitz rivers wind characteristically through the region.

  • Municipality of Nuthetal

    Bordering the state capital Potsdam, Nuthetal offers an attractive mix of nature and recreational options. The Ravensberge hills and southern forests invite exploration, and the glider airfield in Saarmund provides a special experience.

     

  • Municipality of Schwielowsee

    The picturesque municipality surrounding Schwielowsee is one of the most beautiful water sports destinations in the Mark Brandenburg. Caputh, Ferch and Geltow charm visitors with art, culture and a maritime atmosphere.

     

  • Municipality of Seddiner See

    The Großer Seddiner See is the centerpiece of the municipality, surrounded by forests and meadows. While Seddin and Kähnsdorf are old farming and fishing villages, Neuseddin was established in 1912 during the expansion of the railway and now features historic relics like the old water tower.

  • Municipality of Stahnsdorf

    Stahnsdorf is characterized by the Parforceheide, a former Prussian royal hunting ground, and the Potsdam lake district. The Güterfelder Haussee is known for its excellent water quality. One of Europe's largest cemeteries with many notable burials is also located here.

  • Municipality of Wiesenburg/Mark

    Known as the "pearl of the Fläming," this area features the Renaissance Wiesenburg Castle and its magnificent landscaped park. Nearby, visitors can explore a candle workshop, a schnapps distillery, and the Hoher Fläming Nature Park.

  • Town of Bad Belzig

    The spa and administrative town of Bad Belzig is known for its historic old town and the imposing Eisenhardt Castle. A monument on nearby Hagelberg commemorates the battle of 1813. The geographical center of the former GDR lies near Weitzgrund.

  • Town of Beelitz

    Beelitz is best known for its traditional asparagus cultivation. In addition to the historic town center, the listed Beelitz Heilstätten (sanatoriums) are among the city's most fascinating sights. The surrounding Nuthe-Nieplitz Nature Park offers many opportunities for recreation.

  • Town of Teltow

    Teltow is regionally famous for its "Teltower Rübchen" (turnips) and the Teltow Canal. Landmarks such as the Schinkel-designed Andreas Church and the Stubenrauch monument on the market square invite visitors to explore.

  • Town of Treuenbrietzen

    Treuenbrietzen is known for the Sabinchen moraine and nearby nature reserves such as the "Zarth." The surrounding meadows and low moor landscapes shape the region and invite discovery.

  • Town of Werder (Havel)

    Werder (Havel) is famous for its fruit and wine growing, and the traditional Baumblütenfest (tree blossom festival). The town is picturesquely situated among lakes and forests and offers cultural highlights such as the Glindow Brickworks Museum and Petzow Castle.

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