braunschweig's castle square

Places Behind the Names: The Brunswick

While “Brunswick” sounds very British, it’s the English spelling of Braunschweig, an old German city. Nowadays, towns called Brunswick have sprouted in many corners of the globe. You may have heard of a Brunswick in the US, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia or even Chile. But as we examine the place behind our Brunswick Cast Stone Fireplace Mantel, we’re going back to the original town in Germany.

Welcome to Braunschweig

Braunschweig today is a town with a population of a quarter million in the north of Germany, about 145 miles southwest of Berlin. It’s known for biotechnology, transportation technology and finance. But Braunschweig, also known as the Lion City, has royal roots. Otto IV was part of the House of Guelph, a royal dynasty in Europe. Son of Henry the Lion, Otto was crowned emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in 1209. Otto and his father expanded the town of Braunschweig into a city, transforming it into the seat of their power. Visitors today can still find many royal remains to tour.

What to See?

braunschweig's castle square
Photo Courtesty: Braunschweig’s Castle Square

Here are a few highlights for travelers to Braunschweig:

  • Castle Square – See the reconstructed 12th century castle, Saint Blasii Cathedral and a lion statue. The statue dates to 1166 and was originally gold-plated.
  • Richmond Palace – When Princess Augusta moved to Braunschweig from London, she was disappointed in the comparatively small town feel. In 1766 her husband, Charles William Ferdinand, built her a private palace to cheer her up.

The Oker River – Take a break from royalty to raft the gentle Oker River, which encircles Braunschweig’s inner city. If you prefer to row, rent a canoe.
lion statue
Photo Courtesy: The original lion statue

The Reformation Anniversary

Braunschweig expects many tourists this year, as it celebrates the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Society and religion were never the same after this pivotal movement. In Braunschweig, a Benedictine monk named Gottschalk Kruse lectured publicly and penned some of the Reformation’s earliest writings.

Our Brunswick Mantel

brunswick fireplace mantel
Our own beloved Brunswick Cast Stone Fireplace Mantel

At Old World Stoneworks, we feel that our Brunswick mantel surround exudes the elegance of royalty without the frippery. Our customers love the Brunswick’s clean lines. Are you ready for a touch of German royalty in your home? Give us a call and we’ll help you determine the best mantel for you.