Historical Capitals of the World

Königsberg 

Country: Russia

Region: Europe

Period: 1525-1701

Location: 54.711472°N, 20.509306°E

Description

Königsberg was the capital of East Prussia and a key city in the Kingdom of Prussia. Founded by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, it developed into a major cultural and political center, known for its university, fortifications, and intellectual life, including being the home of philosopher Immanuel Kant.

Modern Remains

Today, Königsberg is Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave between Poland and Lithuania. Much of the historic city was destroyed in World War II, but remnants like the reconstructed Königsberg Cathedral and parts of the old fortifications remain. Kaliningrad reflects a layered history—Prussian, German, Soviet, and Russian—making it a unique site of cultural convergence.

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