Putbus

Putbus is a town on the island of Rügen in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, located in the Vorpommern-Rügen district. It is widely known for its status as a planned Neoclassical town founded in the early 19th century by Prince Wilhelm Malte I zu Putbus. The town’s nickname, the White Town (Weiße Stadt), stems from the light-coloured plaster used on many of its façades.

The urban design of Putbus centers on a circular marketplace called the Circus, from which broad avenues radiate through a framework of Neoclassical buildings. This architectural ensemble creates a cohesive townscape around the central square. A prominent feature is Putbus Palace (Schloss Putbus) and its surrounding park, which anchor the historical identity of the town and illustrate the prince’s ambition to create a model resort community.

Historically, Putbus developed as a resort destination in the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting visitors to its promenades, gardens, and tranquil ambience. The Rasender Roland, a historic narrow-gauge railway, operates a heritage line that connects Putbus with Göhren along the island’s southeast coast, serving both residents and tourists.

Geographically, Putbus lies in southeastern Rügen and forms part of the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve, an area recognized for balancing cultural heritage with natural landscapes. Today the town preserves its architectural heritage while maintaining a role in island tourism, cultural activities, and regional infrastructure.