Klempenow Castle

The origins of Klempenow Castle date back to 1231, when Pomeranian dukes began constructing fortifications in the region. The complex is presumably attributed to Duke Wartislaw III around 1240, although its first documented mention as a sovereign castle only occurred in 1331. Experienced colonizers from Westphalia, Flanders, and Friesland were brought in for the construction of the lowland castle, also tasked with advancing the Christianization and colonization of the Slavic tribes. The castle was built on the alluvial soil of the Tollense valley, using bricks from field kilns and fieldstones as infill material. The oldest surviving parts, the tower and the curtain wall, date from the mid to late 13th century. Around 1433, a granary and a gatehouse were added, the latter being rebuilt at the end of the 15th century.