Güstrow (district)

Geography and character

The landscape of the former district included mixed farmland, forests and a number of small lakes typical of inland Mecklenburg. Settlements were spread among a network of market towns and rural municipalities. Economic activity historically centered on agriculture, food processing, small-scale manufacturing and local services, with growing emphasis on nature-based and cultural tourism.

History and administrative change

The district’s boundaries and administrative status reflected several rounds of territorial reform in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania after German reunification. In the state-wide reorganisation of 2011 the district was dissolved and its area incorporated into the newly formed district of Rostock, part of an effort to reduce the number of districts and improve administrative efficiency.

Culture and notable places

The town of Güstrow, as the former district seat, is noted for its historical town centre, Gothic and Renaissance architecture and cultural associations with the expressionist sculptor Ernst Barlach. These local cultural assets have been important for regional identity and for attracting visitors to the area.

Legacy and distinctions

As a former Landkreis, Güstrow is an example of Germany’s multi-level system of local government and of the adjustments that states periodically make to district boundaries. While the district entity no longer exists, the name remains in local usage for historical, cultural and geographical reference.

• Type: former rural district (Landkreis)
• Seat: Güstrow (town)
• Status: dissolved in 2011 reform and merged into the district of Rostock