The park-like Parchim ramparts are a garden and archaeological monument worth seeing. Covering an area of 4.4 hectares, they enclose the northeastern side of Parchim's old town and run along the former medieval town fortifications. While walking through the gardens, visitors also learn about Parchim's eventful history.
The ramparts date back to the medieval fortification of the Eldestadt. High walls made of fieldstone and brick protected the old town. Forward ramparts and ditches could be flooded with the water of the Elde River and offered additional protection against attacks. Remains of the city wall, a defense tower, a Wiekhaus and stone bullets from this period have been preserved.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the ramparts were transformed into a park-like setting. Gloomy gates and walls were polished, trees were planted, monuments were placed and promenades were laid out. A green oasis was created on the edge of the old town. The visual relationships within the complex and the routing were restored in 2018 and the ramparts shine in new splendor after the renovation.Playgrounds were created for families.
The ramparts are part of the European Route of Brick Gothic, as are the Parchim churches St.Georgen and St.Marien and the Parchim town hall. Garden lovers will find the Old Cemetery of the city of Parchim directly south of the ramparts, which is also worth seeing.
Guided tours of the park through the ramparts and the old cemetery can be arranged by the city information office in Parchim.
