Salzwedel

Germany, Germany

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Salzwedel, officially Hansestadt Salzwedel, is a charming Hanseatic town in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, serving as the capital of Altmarkkreis Salzwedel with around 21,500 residents.

Located along the Jeetze River in the Altmark region, it features a well-preserved medieval core with numerous half-timbered houses, historic town gates like the Neuporter Gate and Stonegate, gothic brick churches such as St. Mary’s, and remnants of old fortifications including the Hungerturm Tower.

Once a key trading hub in the Hanseatic League known for salt production—reflected in its name derived from "Salz" (salt) and "Wedel" (forest)—it lies on the German Timber-Frame Road and boasts attractions like a fairy-tale garden, the Altmark Museum, and a revitalized market square with cafés. Today, its colorful restored architecture and cultural events draw visitors to this picturesque spot in northwestern Germany.