Oranienburg

Oranienburg is the administrative center of Oberhavel District, located about 30 kilometers north of Berlin along the Havel River, and includes several neighborhoods with residential areas, parks, and industrial zones. The municipality combines denser urban development in the center with flatter, green outskirts crossed by waterways and rural paths.

The settlement of Bötzow emerged in the 13th century and was renamed in 1646 when Louise Henriette of Orange commissioned a palace. After World War II, the town was deeply shaped by its proximity to a major camp and by war damage, before developing anew as an administrative center.

The name honors Princess Louise Henriette, who established a residence here in the 17th century, and today the town retains a quiet provincial character marked by tree-lined avenues and regional markets. In the old center, cobblestone lanes lead to smaller squares surrounded by local shops that reflect everyday life in Brandenburg.

The S1 suburban train connects the town regularly with Berlin and runs at short intervals during the day. Visitors on foot will find well-marked pedestrian routes in the center, while bicycle paths along the Havel help with orientation.

After heavy bombing in World War II, numerous unexploded bombs remain buried underground, prompting expert teams to conduct regular search operations. These efforts occasionally lead to temporary street closures until the findings are secured and removed.

Location: Oberhavel District

Elevation above the sea: 34 m

Shares border with: Hohen Neuendorf, Mühlenbecker Land, Oberkrämer, Velten, Birkenwerder, Löwenberger Land, Liebenwalde, Leegebruch

Website: https://oranienburg.de

GPS coordinates: 52.75444,13.23694

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:04