Cottbus, Brandenburg

The oldest houses in Cottbus, Brandenburg, Germany
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gerberh%C3%A4user,_Cottbus.jpg
Author: Kocurik


Cottbus is a university city in the state of Brandenburg. Located on the river Spree, it covers 164 sq km (63 sq mi) and has a population of 102,000 people (2012 estimate).

The city of Cottbus traces its foundation to the 10th century, when a Western Slavic tribe called the Sorbs built fortifications on a sand island in the river Spree. The settlement was first mentioned by name in 1156. It began to receive German settlers in the 13th century. During this period, the settlement developed into a center for the wool trade.

Cottbus was acquired by the Margraviate of Brandenburg in 1462. In 1701 it became part of the Kingdom of Prussia, and expanded in area when the Kingdom of Saxony ceded parts of Upper and Lower Lusatia to Prussia in 1815. The city became part of East Germany after the Second World War, and following reunification, was placed within the state of Brandenburg.

Oberkirche St Nikolai in Cottbus with Altmarkt Square
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cottbus_Altmarkt_Nikolaikirche2.jpg
Author: Joeb07

How to go to Cottbus

From Berlin, take Autobahn 13 heading south until the Spreewald Triangle (Dreieck), then continue on Autobahn 15 until Exit 4 (Cottbus-West Interchange). Take Highway 169 heading northeast to reach Cottbus.

Places of Interest in Cottbus