Rügen's history comes to life at a variety of well-preserved monuments, churches, palaces and stately homes. The many megalithic graves and tumuli on the island are impressive reminders of its prehistorical and early historical legacy. Ralswiek Palace and Granitz hunting lodge illustrate the grandeur of the feudal 19th century and offer insights into the royal lifestyle of the time.Granitz hunting lodge
This late neo-classical hunting lodge lies to the south of Binz on Tempelberg hill in the heart of Granitz forest, a woodland area covering 1,000 hectares. It was built between 1837 and 1846/51 for Prince Wilhelm Malte I of Putbus in the style of a north-Italian Renaissance castle. The 38 metre-tall central tower, which is open to the public, was designed by the renowned German architect Karl-Friedrich Schinkel. Now used as a museum, its historical rooms provide an insight into royal life in the 19th century. On the roof of the tower, 145m above sea level, a viewing platform offers awe-inspiring panoramic views in all directions.Ralswiek Palace
Ralswiek Palace was built for Count Douglas in 1894 in the style of a Loire chateau. It stands on a hill and has two distinctive towers. The interior is especially well worth seeing, as it includes designs by Henry van de Velde, the influential art nouveau artist. The extensive palace park, one of Rügen's most impressive gardens, offers a wealth of botanical interest. The annual Störtebeker Festival is performed here on the open-air stage.Megalithic graves and tumuli
Rügen's many megalithic graves (Neolithic age) and tumuli (Bronze age) prove that the island has been populated for thousands of years. The five most impressive megalithic graves lie close together in a field to the south of Lancken-Granitz. The largest is the "Dobberworth" near Sagard. Megalithic graves were built using huge glacial boulders left scattered at the end of the ice age.