Germany: Difference between revisions

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Etymology and other names

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1701 A system of geography by Herman Moll - Germany.jpg

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Sources from old books

1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.

FOrasmuch as the Romaine Empire is in the power of the Germaines, and very politickely divided into parts, I thinke it a matter worth my labour to set before your eyes the order and disposition of those parts, as they are described in a writing called Matricula Imperij: and afterward to shew you in Tables the severall members of this Empire, that the studious Reader may finde in what Country they are situated. But I have gotten two Coppies of this Matricula, the one written; the other printed at Venice in Italian, being both much corrupted. And I know that the Empire is now divided in another manner. Therefore let no man blame me, or be of•ended, if he finde some parts that are reckoned as belonging to the Empire, doe not belong thereunto, for it is not my intention to speake expressely of all the severall parts of this Empire, neither was it possible for me to do, out of such corrupt Coppies; especially seeing that I know that a great part of the Empire, came into the hands of private Princes, either by Exchange, or Morgage, or gifts, for their good service in defence of the Empire, or for some other causes. Neither is it my part to prosecute those things which belong to Politicians, and not Geographers, but onely I sought that out of this Coppie of Matricula, I might shew the elegant disposition and division of the Empire of Germany, and might declare how the studdies of Geographie, and Policie doe mutually illustrate one another. This is therefore the order of the Empire.

GERMANIE. (Book Germany)
THus you have seene the description of the Low countries both in generall and speciall: now passing over the Rhene, high Germanie, which Ptolemie calls great Germanie, offers it selfe, which is the largest Country of Europe, and the glory of the Romaine Empire. This Country I will runne over in the same method as I did the other, describing it first in generall, and then in particular. But that I may begin with the name thereof, divers doe diversly derive the name of Germanie or the Germaines. One saith, that the Germaines were so called as it were Gaermannen, that is, stout men, in regard of their Martiall manly strength: another supposeth that they were so named, from their mutuall fidelity, and faithfulnesse; neither did he guesse much amisse, who denveth the Etymologie of their name from their honourable warfare, as it the people were called Geertmans, and so by contraction of the word Germanes. Another thinketh that they were so denominated from the Latine word genuini, that is, genuine or native, because no nation doth retaine more of their auncient integritie, and rusticke simplicity: but it seemes that the author of this dreame did speake this to gaine the favour of the people: albeit the Geographer Strabo and Livy: doe both erroniously suppose that the Romaine people did give this name to this country, because they were Cose• Germaines to the Celtae, both in regard of their manners, 2and f••••ons, and also in respect of their great stature, and red haire. Iohn Goropius Becanus doth probably derive the name thereof from their gathering and mustering of souldiours, from Geren, which signifies to gather or muster. Which opinion Tacitus seemes to fortifie and confirme, who professeth in his commentarie of the Germaines manners, that Germany is a new fresh name, because they who first passed over Rhene (that I may use his owne words) having droven out the Frenchmen, were sometime called Tungrians, and sometimes Germaines, which name afterward grew so frequent, that first the Conquerour, and afterward they themselves, did call themselves Germaines. Some doe interpret the word Germaine to signifie a scattered people, collected out of other nations, from the word Geren which signifies to collect or gather together. Some doe suppose their denomination doth intimate that they were a warlike people desirous of warre, from Gerra, or Guerra, which signifies warre. A learned Saxon doth derive the name thereof from the Carmanians a people of Asia, whom Lucan mentioneth, as the Saxons were so called from the Sacians: and in other places he deduces the Etymologie of their name from an Hebrew word, as it were Ger•mani, which in that language signifies strangers or poore and needy people. But Peucerus delighting in the studious searching out the originall of his Countries name, thinketh that they were called Germaines, as it were Hermenner; that is, military men. The most learned Iunius doth derive the name of it from the great Deluge, which drowned all the world: when Noah parted the world among his three children: at what time (that I may speake nothing of Sem and Cham) Europe fell to Iaphets share. He, as it appeares in Moyses, had a sonne, called Gomer, who had three sonnes, Aschenaz, Rephat, and Thogarma. And they affirme that the Germaines descended from Thogarma: although the Rabines doe hold that the Germaines came from Aschenazin. For the originall of the Germaines name doth cleerely shine forth in the word Thogarma, or Thegerma, by taking the second vowell for the first, as if we should pronounce it in our language by the article the, The Germans: also there is a fit Etymologie answerable to the word and nation, which is from Gara or Gera, which signifies a bone, and metaphorically strength, because it is a stout and strong bon'd Nation. Some also doe call this part of Europe Alemaine, and the inhabitants thereof Alemans, by which name they were first called, when the Empire began to decline. Berosus doth fabulously report, it was so called from Hercules an Alemaine, who was governour over these people. Some suppose that it was called Alemaine, from Mannus who was esteemed as a god in their Country, the sonne of Tuiscon. Asinius Quadratus a faithfull historian, doth affirme that the Almaines, were so called as it were a people collected and gathered from all Nations, which spread themselves all over this Country; who did not, as it seemes, looke exactly into the signification of the word, for he should have called them Almaines because they were all men, and warriours. They that derive Alemanie from the Lake Lemann, would have Germany so called from a Lake without the limits thereof in Sabaudia: unlesse some doe take the Acronian Lake for the Lake Leman, on either bank whereof the Almaines did inhabit, as Ammianus reporteth Lib. 15. And though some do promiscuously make Germanie & Almany al one, yet it is observed that they were two distinct Countries. Spartianus in the life of Marius saith: Omnis Alemannia, omnisque Germania, cum caeteris quae adjacent gentibus; that is, All Almany, and Germany with the other adjacent countries. Flavius Vopiscus saith in the lif of Probus: Testes sunt Franci, inuijs strati paludibus, testes Germani & Alemanni, longe a Rheni semoti littoribus, that is, The Frenchmen are witnesses, who dwell in the Low grounds, the Germaines are witnesses, and the Almaines who are farre off from the shoares of Rhene. I omit other testimonies, least I should be tedious. Some also doe call it Teutonia, from Teuto a certaine Captaine thereof: some thinke that the Teutons, who are called in their owne Countrie speech Teutche, and by the Italians Tedaschi, and by others Teutons, were so called from Thuisto, otherwise Thuisco, whom they beleeve was the Sonne of Noah. Tacitus maketh mention heereof: Celebrant carminibus antiquis (quod unum apud illos memoriae & Annalium genus est). Thuistonem deum terra editum & filium Mannum, originem gentis, conditoresque; that is, they celebrate in auncient verses (which kinde of Annalls they doe onely use) That Thuisto an earthy God and his sonne Mannus, were the first founders of this Nation. Strabo placeth them in Noricum: some suppose that they were the Agrippine Colonie, and that the place was therefore called Teutsch. The inhabitants doe now call it Teutschlandt, and strangers Almany. The Sclavonians doe call it Nimiecha: and the Graec•ans doe •ow call it •lamags, and the Turkes Alaman. But enough concerning the Etymologie and various appellations of Germanie, now I come to the situation or quantitie thereof. Besides, authors doe not agree in designing and setting downe the limits of Germanie. The auncients doe bounder Germany with the Rhene, Danub•us, the Ocean, the River Ta•••s and the Euxine Sea. The latter writers, as Strabo, Ptolomie, M•la, Plinnie, and many other Greeke and Latine writers, doe bounder it with the River Rhene and Vestula. Tacitus writeth that the mountaines, or a mutuall distrust one of another, doth rather separate the Germaines from the Sarmatians and Dacians, than Vis•ula. All those Countries which use the Germaine speech or dialect are reckoned now as parts of Germany. And therefore it stretcheth beyond those bounds which Ptolemie gives it, and beyond Danub•us, contayning Ri•••a, ••ndel••a, the higher Pannonia, and beyond •ly•a, even to the Tridentine bounds. Also beyond the Rhene, Germa•• did containe these Romaine Colonies, and garrisons, Constantia, Augusta Raur••corum, Argentina, Nemetes, Vangiones, Mo•un••a•••, Corfi••••a, Bonna, the Agrippin• Colonie, and other places even unto the Sea. For as Ambrosius witnesseth, 11 Hexamer. Rh••• was heretofore the limmit of the Romaine Empire: and that on the French bancke thereof the Romaine Pra•sidents did alwayes lye in garri•on against the Germaine•▪ partly that they might restraine that ex•••s•ons, and partly that they might make inroads upon them, and partly that they might receive those Germaines that revolted to them. And this is the Reason, that on one of the banckes of Rhene, there are many old 〈◊〉, but none on the other: which may also be observed on the bancke of Danubiu•. Helvetia, also is reckoned now as a part of Ge•man•• & the Prutenians beyond Vistula: so that the bounds thereof are now much larger than those which Ptolemie attributes to it for on the W•s••• stretcheth beyond the Rhene, even to Piccardi• and Burgundie which are parts of France: on the South toward Danuvi•• even to the Alpes: On the East beyond even to Spru••and: the Northerne limit is the Ocean. There are many chiefe parts of Germanie, which shall be here described, with the lesser subject or adjacent countries. The Kingdomes are, Bohemia, the Palatinate▪ and the Kingdome of Poland, though it hath a different language, and is not contained in the Register of the Empire, yet because it is situate within the bounds of auncient Germanie, which is the River Vistul•▪ therefore we place it among the tables of Germanie. Also we joyne the Kingdome of Hungerie to Germanie, which is situate without the limmits of auncient Germanie, and in regard it hath yeelded many famous Emperours and hath dominion over many Countries situate within the Empire. There are also the Dukedome of Saxonie, the Archdukedome of Austria. Also the Dukedomes of Holst, of M•••lenburg, Pomeren, Lunenburg, Lawenburg, Brunswijck, Meissen, Schasen, Moravia, Cleve, Berge, Franconia, or Easterne France, Bavaria▪ Wirtenberg, and the Countie of Suevia: the Palatinate of Bavaria, the Landgravials of Hessen, Duringen, and of the higher and lower Alsatia. The Marckgraniate Electorship of Brandenburg, and of Baden, the Counties of Embdem, Oldenburg, Benthem, Lip, Diepholt, Huy, Mansfelt, Anholt, Stolberg, Tirol, and Livonia which is reckoned among the Provinces of Germany, but because it lyeth within Sarmatia, it is there described. The situation being declared, the qualitie of the soyle followeth, which ariseth chiefely from the climate and position thereof in respect of the heavens. Germany is under the sixt, seaventh, and eighth climates, betweene the fourtie seaventh and fiftie five degrees of Latitude, and the twentie fourth and forty sixth degrees of Longitude. The longest day in sommer in the Southerne parallel is fifteene houres long and an halfe: in the Northerne Parallel, it is seaventeene houres long and a quarter; and albeit Cornelius Tacitus saith, that Germany is in a cold sharpe climate, and Seneca reporteth that it is alwayes winter in Germanie: yet it hath a temperate ayre, which though it bee somewhat cold, yet it is healthfull and wholesome.
The soyle yeeldeth Barly, Wheate, Rye, Mill, Oates, and other kindes of corne and pulse. The fields and Meddowes are fruitfull, and the soyle is every where very fertile, and yeeldeth great stoare of Corne. Germanie also hath rich Mines of Silver, Brasse, Iron, Lead, and other mettals, and in some places of gold: so that for mettalls it is inferiour to no Countrie. There are also many excellent Salt pitts. Plinnie also saith, the Cadmian stones, the Callais, the Crystall, the Onyx, the Topaz, and the Adamant; are found in Germanie. Also the hearbes. Heere are a thousand delightfull gardens, and Villages, and Orchards full of Apples.
What, should I mention the wines? which are of an excellent taste and colour? Truely there are excellent wines every where; but yet in some places better than in others. Heere is also great variety of living creatures, and great stoare of Cattell and wilde beasts, which I will not spend time to reckon up. C. Iulius Caesar writeth, that many kindes of wilde beasts are bred in the Wood Hercynia, which are not seene in any other place; of which (saith hee) those that differ most from the rest, and are most worthy of remembrance are these: there is a kinde of Oxe which is like a Hart, which hath in the middle of his forehead one high horne, and more straite than usuall, from the toppe whereof large Antletts or Tines doe spread forth; the male and femall are of one shape, and have one as bigge hornes as the other. There is also a beast called Alcis, which is like unto a ••ate, but it is somewhat bigger, and having no hornes at all, and their legges are without joynts, so that they cannot by any meanes lye downe to their rest, or if they fall downe by chance, they cannot rise up againe; therefore they leane against trees, and so they take their rest: and when the hunters have found by their footing where they usually haunt, they either stub up all the trees, or else they cut them halfe downe, and so leave them standing: So that when the beasts rest against them according to their usuall manner, they overthrow the trees with their weight, and so fall downe with them. The third kind of beasts are those which are called Vri, which are almost as bigge as Elephants, and like Bulls in shape and colour: they are very strong, and swift, and will prey on men and beasts: these they usually take in trappes, and so kill them. But now I come to the auncient government. The sacred Romaine Empire, which being divided into the West and Easterne part, was much weakned by the excursions of divers Nations, and rent by civill dissentions, was ready to be ruined by its owne weight; having forsooke Italie did seeke defence and strength in no other Countrie but Germanie, and chose Charles the Great King of France to be Emperour, who as they report, was borne at Ingelheimij, which is a village Towne two miles from Moguntiacum, and built there a famous Pallace, whose ruines may be yet seene. The Empire remained in Charles his line an hundred yeares, and above: which afterward failing, it was translated to Conrade Duke of Franconia: after whom followed Henry Fowler: after him the three Ottoes: the last whereof when he understood that the Romaines, Crescentius being consull, did affect and desire the title of the Empire, he raysed an army and tooke Rome, and obtayned of Pope Gregorie, that the Germaines should have right and power to elect the Romaine Emperours. But they obtayned it on this condition, that he which was elected should be called Caesar and King of the Romaines: and afterward having received a Crowne from the Pope, he hath the title of Emperour Augustus. There are 7 Electors ordained: of which three are Archbishops, and foure are saecular Princes as they call them: where after the decease of Otto, the first, that was chosen Emperour was Henry surnamed the holy. Afterward in processe of time, there were divers officers constituted and ordained in Germany, for the honour of the Empire, concerning which see Mercator. Tacitus who was governour of the Belgian• under Vespasian, doth commend the Germaines in this short Elogi• thus: Nemo bellum Germanis (inquit) intulit impuné. None made warre upon the Germaines but they came by the losse. Which, three of Augustus Legions found, being overcome and beaten by them: Also Carbo, Cassius, Scaurus, Aurelius, Servilius, Coepio, Manlius, all great Commanders, who were slaine and put to flight. And there are these auncient verses:
Welcher im Krieg wil ungluck han,Der fang es mit den Deutschen an.
Iosephus calleth them valiant, Dionysius Martiall, Arrianus warlike. The Germane is couragious, fierce at an onset, and desirous of warres, as Seneca witnesseth in his booke de Ira. Moreover the Country of Germany is now so pleasant, and so adorned with faire Citties, Castells, and Villages, that it is not inferior to Italie France and Spaine. There are 84 free Citties in it, as Colonia Agrippina, Wirtemberg, Lubek, Luneburg, Franckfort, Breme, Lipsick, Spires, Argentine, Friburg, Augusta Vindelicorum, Tubinga, Heidelburg, Ratisbone, Vienna, Prague, Buda, &c. of which hereafter. Germany also is watered with so many great Rivers, beside Lakes and Marishes of which it hath great stoare, that in this respect, also it may compare with the chiefest Countries. Seneca in his third booke of naturall questions sheweth the cause why it hath so many Rivers: At contra, ait, constat Germaniam Galliam{que}, & proximè ab his Italiam abundare R•vis, & fluminibus; quia coelo humido utuntur, & ne aestate quidem, imbribus carent: That is, But on the contrary (saith he) it is manifest that Germany and France, and Italy which is next unto them, have great stoare of Rivers, because they have a moyst aye, and have often raine in Summer. But these Rivers of Germiny are more famous, as Danubius, Rhene, Amasis, Moenus, Necarus, Albis, Suevus, Visurgis, and Vistula. That which Ptolomie and others doe call Danubius, Plinny and Strabo doe call Ister; the one saith that it changeth his name neere the Cataracts thereof; the other, where it washeth Illyrium. Ptolemie saith, that it changeth his name neere the Cittie Axipolis: Appian neere the confluence and meeting of the River Savus: so that the higher part is called Danubius, and the lower part Ister. Stephanus heretofore called it Matoas: also Danubis and Danusis: Festus calleth it Addubanus. Ancient coynes doe name it Daunvius: it is now called Done and Donaw, from the noyse and sound of the waters, as Althamerus saith. Salust writeth that this is the greatest River next to Nile which floweth into the Mediterranian Sea; and Arrianus, lib. 1. of the acts of Alexander, calleth it the greatest River. It riseth in the wood Hercynia, in the village Don Eschingen, where it springeth out of the bowells of the Earth. The auncients doe call the Mountaine out of which it riseth Abnoba, although as Munster an eye-witnesse writeth, there is no mountaine nere it: but it falleth with a continual running streame, from a little hill which is scarse 15 or 16 foote high. He addeth that Tiberius had a desire to see the spring head thereof. Herodotus beleeved that it rose out of the Pyrenaean Mountaines, whose opinion Aristotle also followed, 2. Meteorologicor. Maginus placeth those Pyrenaean hills in Germany, thereby to excuse the errour of grave writers. As soone as it glideth from the fountaine, it runneth abroad through Moarish places, and afterward it gathers it selfe into a Channell, and so being encreased by receiving other Rivers, it runneth through many countries, as Sucuia, Pannonia, Dacia, Bulgaria, untill at last having received 6 navigable Rivers, it rowleth into the Sea with five streames or mouthes, as Dionysius, Strabo, and Herodotus doe mention: Plinny saith with sixe, and Amianus, and Solinus with seaven: and with such violence, so that it runneth with fresh water 40 miles into the sea. And as Amian saith: Et constat ab ultimis nostri finibus maris, agminaum pariendi gratia petere Pisces, ut aquarum suavitate salubrius faetum educant, nec intercipiantur, That is, it is manifest that the fish from the farthest part of our seas doe come hither in shoales, that they may spawne here in safety. Tajanus Nerva built a curious bridge over this River in Moesia, which afterward Adrian did demolish, as Dio Cassius relateth. Concerning Danubius, George Fabritius in a certaine Itinerarie of his writeth thus:
— Ister,Qui centum populos & magnas alluit urbes,Euxinum irrumpit bis terno flumine Pontum.Ister that doth through an hundred Countries glide,And watereth them, with Citties too beside,Both faire and great, with sixe streames last of all,Into the Euxine Sea at length doth fall.
For at length all the most famous Rivers in the world doe runne into the Sea, as Ovid also Lib. 8. Metamorph. does mention in this verse:
In quo desinimus, sacri, in quo currimus amnes.We sacred Rivers to the Sea doe come,And into it we all of us doe runne.
The next is the Rhene, which Caesar and other doe commend: it is now called Rhijn. Caesar would have it rise out of Leopontium, and Strabo and Ptolomie, affirme that it ariseth out of the Mountaine A••la, which is commonly called Etzel, which is an arme of the Alpes; and Claudian faith, that it riseth out of Rhetia. But Strabo and Ptolomy doe thinke that Rhene beginneth on the Eastside of the Alpes where they are joyned to the Mountaine Adula, and where the Lepontians doe inhabit, and so springeth out of two fountaines, which are at least a dayes journey distant one from another. The one being more to the Northwest which is commonly called the foremost Rhene: the other lying more Southeast, which the inhabitants cal the latter Rhene. These two at length meete together, and so doe make the River Rhene, which neere unto the head doe make two Lakes, the Acronian and Constantian, from the Cittie Constantia which is situated by it; concerning which we will entreate in the description of Helvetia: the other is called Venetum, and now the Cellensian Lake, from the little Towne Cella, which Lake hath abundance of all sorts of fish. From hence turning Westward it watereth Rhinfelden, & follows the same tract even to Basilea. And there it runneth Northward, untill it come to Argentoratum: and so watereth many Countries, and having viewed many Citties, and having received many great and small Rivers, it groweth very deepe, and commeth swelling even to Spires, Wormes, and Moguntiam. Hence turning Westward it watereth Bingium. And from thence winding toward Caecia, having left behind it Bonna and Colonia, at last neere the edge of Batavia (which is now under the jurisdiction of Cleveland, and is graced with the auncient Castell Lobecum) it doth divide it selfe, and with a double streame runneth divers wayes. Which division Mamertinus elegantly calleth the Divorce, and Frontinus the turning of the River. Neere therefore to Lobecum it doth divide his course, so that the one part thereof called Rhene doth run straite forward to Arenacum a chiefe Cittie of Gelderland. And from thence with many winding Maeanders, it glideth towards Vada; and so bendeth from thence to Rhena, which Tacitus calleth Rinnes: from thence it runneth to Bavodurum. Afterward the Rhene changeth his name, and begins to be called Lecca, being heretofore a little Rivulet, but now it is become a River. Having glided by Culenburg and Viana, and having viewed Schoonhovia, it powreth it selfe into the River Merova, before it is called Mosa. The other part of Rhene doth bend toward the left hand, and floweth by the auncient Cittie Neomagum, and runneth by the walls of the Cittie, it is now called Vahalis: not long afterward it goeth toward Tiela: and from thence with a winding course it leaveth Bomelius on the left hand: afterward not farre from Woricomium it receiveth the River Mosa, and by and by neere Goricomium, being encreased with the slow smooth running River Linga, and it is called Merova, from the Castell of the Merovaeans; by which having passed it glideth by Dordretch a Noble Island out of the Cittie: afterward having received the Rivers Lecca and Isela which are armes of the Rhene, and gliding by Iselmonda, it beginneth to be called Mosa neere to Rotterdam, where it leaveth on the right side Sciedamum and Vlaerdinga, and from thence it glideth by the Towne Gerviletum, and the Brill on the left hand, and there it mingleth it selfe, with the Ocean. That which Ptolemie calls Amasius, Strabo Amasias, Tacitus Amisia, Plinny and Pomponius Amisius, and now Ems. The head of this River is a little beneath Paderbona a Cittie of Westphalia, and so bending towards Caecia it glideth by Varendorp, Greva, Rhena, and Lingha: and from thence it goeth forward unto Meppenum and Nebuisum: and from thence discharging it selfe into the Northerne Ocean, neere to Embda Market Towne, whence it borroweth his name and is called Eems. The fourth River is that which Plinny calls Moenus, and Pomponius Maenis, and Ammianus Menus: now it is called Meyn. Regino the historian and the writers of that time doe call it Mogonum. Velleius Patercules calleth it the River Iulia. Vnlesse in steed of Iulia, it should be Lupia, as some learned men doe suppose. It ariseth out of a Mountaine which is called der Fichtelberg, & so gliding by Franckford, which from thence is called upon Maene, and Wethermia, Herbipolis, and Papeberg; it mingleth it selfe with the Rhene neere to Moguntiacum, and doth part the Low Countries from Germany. The letters thereof doe make by the Greeke computation 365, equall to the number of dayes which are in a yeare. The fifth River is Necarus, whence come the best Necarian wines, it was anciently called Nicer, as Rhenumus witnesseth, the spring head therethereof is two houres journey distant from Danubius, and so having glided through the fields of Wirtemberg, it runneth into the Rhene a little above Heidelburg. Albis followes which is a faire River of Germanie, and divideth the Swevians from the Cherusians. Velleius witnesseth that it doth flow by the confines of the Semnonians and Hermundurians. Tacitus writeth that the famous River Albis doth arise among the Hermundurians, but Conradus Celtes saith that it doth arise out of Hercinia in Bohemia, And so having glided by mary faire Citties, at length it empties it selfe into the Ocean betweene the Chaucians, and the Cimbrians. The auncient Latine writers doe call it Albia, and the Germaines Elbe. And the Bohemians from whence it taketh his originall, doe call it Labe. Fabritius in his booke of the Misnian affaires saith, that it received that name from 11, Fountaines, or as the Saxons say, from so many flowing River. For it arises as he deliuers, in the Hercynian wood, which from the Giants is commonly called Risenberg, from 11 Fountaines, whose streames meeting together doe make the River Albis: for Elve and Elbe doe signifie in the Germaine language, eleven. The seaventh River is Suevus, which some doe call Vtadrum, and corruptly it is called Odera, the spring head whereof is in the Mountaine Oderberg, and so being encreased by the addition of many Rivers, it glideth by Frankford, a famous Vniversity, and from thence it runneth by Stetinum the seate of the Sidinonians, which is a Sea towne of Traffiques, and from thence it windeth to the Episcopall Citties of Carminum, and there making a great Lake it emptieth it selfe into the Germaine Ocean. For they are in an error who suppose that Sprea (or de Spree) is the River Suevus, although the aforesaid Sprea is accounted a famous River, which flowing by Brandenburg doth runne into Albis neere to Haneloburg: of which opinion is Bilibaldus, who writeth that the River Sprea, runneth into the Ocean neere to the Cittie Sunda. The River Visurgis followeth, commonly called de Weser, Dionysius Lib. 55. calls it Ousiourgos. Ovid calls it Iturgum in that verse,
Decolor infesta testis Iturgus aqua▪
Ptolemie calls it Visurigis, and Strabo Bisurgis, and Adamus in his Ecclesiasticall history Visuris, and Sidonius Vesatis. It ariseth out of Hassia, and having watered the Citties, Werdensis, Mindensis, Gotingensis, and Bremensis, it rowleth it selfe into the Ocean, and is there called Vesera. The last river is V•stula, or Istula, which Bilibaldus calleth Vandalum. This River bounders Germany, because Ptolemie doth place the European Sarmatia beyond it. Iornandes calls it Scythia, which running by the Sarmatian rockes, doth water Cracovia which is the Metropolis of the Kingdome of Poland, and being growne greater by the receipt of Rivers, it doth discharge it selfe into the Sea with three inletts or mouthes: from hence it floweth by Dantzick, and afterward by Elbinga, an Vniversity of the Borussians: and thirdly by the Towne Loctetum, and so doth poure it selfe into the Venedician Bay. There are also many other famous Rivers, which doe either runne into the Sea or into some greater River, which I passe over least I should be tedious. Now I come to the Germaine Sea. For seeing we purpose to describe al Germanie, we must add somthing concerning the Sea, which washeth the shore thereof. But in regard we have entreated otherwhere more largely concerning the Sea, and especially in the generall description of Belgia: we will speake first concerning the tide of the Sea, and afterward we will reckon up the properties of the Germaine Sea. It is manifest that the Moone is the cause of the tides of the Ocean. But as the Moone hath divers changes in her motion, so the tides doe also change. For they following the Moone, doe flow twice betweene the rising thereof, and doe ebbe twice in foure and twentie houres: so that the Seas doe flow twice, and ebbe twice every day: they flow when the Moone ascendeth above the Easterne Horizon, and do ebb when it declineth from the Meridian westward; and it floweth againe when the Moone goeth downe under the earth, and commeth to the contrary part of the Meridian, and so likewise it ebbeth untill it rise againe. But as the Moone does not alwayes rise at one time, and in one place, but every day riseth in another place than it did before: so the tides doe not flow at certaine houres, but at that time when the Moone passeth through the Poles of the heavens. Moreover it is to bee noted, that the full Moone doth move the Sea in another manner than the halfe Moone. For this Luminarie hath greater force when it is at the full, than when it is weake, and in the waine. We use to call those tides which are at the full of the Moone Sprinckuloedt, that is, a Spring-tide. Which Agel Lib. 14. concerning the Ocean, doth elegantly call the Moones companion, seeing it followeth the age and increase thereof; and also he noteth some aspects, and configurations: As for example sake, if the Moone have a fit aspect unto Venus, and doe run through moist houses, it doth wonderfully increase the tides of the sea: but if it be aspected with Mars, or dry Planets, it doth lessen the tides. Here also the ascention of the signes is to be noted. But if the Moon be in signes of a right ascension, it maketh the tides longer than if it were in signes of oblique ascension: for it is observed that the tides are never equall to the ebbes in continuance of time; but when the Moone is in the Equinoctiall signes and hath no Latitude. Besides, some parts of the water doe finde a greater influence proceeding from the beames of the bodie of the Moone, either in regard of the rectitude and straightnesse of the beames, or some other hidden qualitie. But the Moone hath a different influence when it is Northward, and another when it is Southward; for when it is heere it encreases the tides on the Southerne shoares, and when it is there, on the Northerne shoares. Moreover the Tides of the Sea are greater in some places, and in other places very small or none at all. For as concerning this our Germaine Sea, it is certaine that there are scarce any tides which can be perceived, but as the Sea is carried with the windes, it floweth now here and now there: for when it is an East wind, the Sea goeth very high, and driveth backe Rivers, neither doth it flow onely to the Sea side, but it overflowes the Land. And whereas the Spanish and Atlanticke Ocean is of an unsearchable deapth, so that a line of three hundred or foure hundred fathom cannot found the bottome of it, yet the Germaine Sea, in the most parts is but 60. Cubits deepe and never above an hundred Cubits, except on some shoares of Norway, which are thought to be of an insearchable depth. Moreover it is worthy to be mentioned, that whereas all other Seas are bitter and salt, our Sea hath sweete waters and not unpleasant to drinke, and that in regard that many great fresh Rivers doe runne into it out of the Sarmatian Mountaines, and because the Sunne is too weake in those places to exhale and draw up the lighter and thinner parts of the water, which some make to bee the chiefe cause of the saltnesse of the Sea. Which reason if it were good and probable, then the Amalchian Sea also, and the Chronian Sea should not be salt, which is otherwise. Wherefore it is rather to be held that the melted snow, and the aforesayd Rivers flowing downe out of the Sarmatian Mountaines, doe make this Sea cleere and sweete. Whereby it comes to passe, that other Seas doe more easily carry vessells of great burden, than this. And the reason is because the water of the salt Sea is of a thicker substance, while the thinner waters doe yeeld to the least waight. It is easier also to swim in this Sea than in others. Yet it maketh Sea men more sicke, in regard the waves goe very high, so that sometimes they seeme to touch the Clouds, and then fall againe and breake into deepe valleyes. This Sea in divers places, hath divers appellations, or names; For sometimes it is called the Germaine Ocean, from Germanie which is neere unto it, and it reacheth from the French, and Brittish Sea, which lyeth Westward, even to Sarmatia in the East. It is also called the Northerne Sea, the Cimbrian Sea, the Balthick, the Codanian, the Suevian Sea, &c. And so much concerning the Sea. There are diverse Mountaines in Germany, the chiefe whereof are, Rolberg, Mons Isidis, Melibocus, Pinifer, Hessus, Ostbergus, Senus, Sucvus, Pavonis, Rheticus, Sprulius, Vocetius, and Vosagus. There are also many other Woods, but the greatest of all is Hercynia. The best Latine and Greeke Authors doe mention the Wood Hercynia, as Pomponius Mela, Strabo lib. 7. and Plinny in many places: which although it be very large and wide, yet all the West and Southerne parts of it lyeth within Germany. And therefore Glar•anus saith, that he never accounted the Wood Ardenna to be a part thereof, which some in our time have rashly done. Caesar Lib. 6. Com. de bel. Gal. writeth that it is 60 dayes journy long, and nine dayes journey broad. It hath now gotten divers names: for in some places it is called the blacke Wood, from the great stoare of Pines in it, or Der Schwarts Wald, and otherwhere Ottoes Wood from the Emperor Ottoes frequent hunting in that part of the Wood: Sometimes it borroweth his name from the people unto which it reacheth, whence it is called the Thuringian and Bohemian Wood. But among the Cheruscians, it doth still retaine the auncient name of the Hercynian Wood, so famous by auncient Greeke and Latine writers; in Dutch Der Hartz Wald. For the French and the Germaines doe call Resina Hartz. Also Pandulphus Collenutins Pisauriensiis in his description of Germany, doth make mention of this wood in these words: the Wood Hyrcinia assuming divers names, runneth out to the Dacians and Getes, untill at length it commeth to the Tartarians, where it is called the darke Wood, and is impassable, both in regard of the unknowne wayes and wilde beasts, and the monstrous Fawnes.
But of these things enough, I passe to other matters: The publicke and priuate workes doe follow, among which (to passe by others) is the Church at Argeutoratum, famous for the neate structure and building, having a very high Tower. So that it is the eighth miracle of the world. This Church was founded in the yeare of Christ 1015. But in the yere of our Lord 1277, in the time of the Bishop Conrade of Liechtenberg, Erkuinus of Steinbach an Architect began to build the Tower, being a famous worke; so that there is not the like, either in Germanie, Italy, or France; it was built up to the toppe in seaven and twentie yeeres. It is built even from the foundation to the toppe, of free square stone; it hath many open places to receive the ayre and the winde, and the ascent and going up unto it is by foure staires; but when the bredth of it begins to lessen, and grow sharpe towards the toppe, there are eight staires. The very top of it which below doth scarsely seeme as bigge as a Bushell, is so great, that five or sixe men might stand upon it. The height of it is 574. Geometricall feete; there is also a curious and artificiall Clocke. And as concerning the Ecclesiasticke state of Germanie, there are 7 Archbishops in the Empire of Germanie. These are, the Archbishop of Mentz, under whom are 12 Suffragan Bishops, as the Bishop of Chur, the Bishop of Costnitz, of Strasburg, of Spires, of Wormes, of Wurtzburg, of Ausburg, of Aystett, of Hildeshaim, of Paderborn, of Halbertstatt, of Ferden. The Archbishop of Colen, who hath 5 Suffragan Bishops: the Bishop of Munster, the Bishop of Vtretcht, of Leodium, of Minden, and of Osenburg. Also the Archbishop of Triers, under whom are 3 Suffragan bishops; the Bishop of Metz, of Toul in Lotharingia, and the Bishop of Verdum. Also the Archbishop of •eydmurg Primate of Germanie, under whom are foure Bishops; the Bishop of Morsburg, the Bishop of Naumburg, of Brandeburg, and Havelburg. The Archbishop of Salizburg, hath 9 Suffragan Bishops under him; as the Bishop of Trent, Brixiensis, of Passaw, Frisingensis, of Vienna, of Seckaw; of Gurox, of Lavenmund, and of Chiemse. The Archbishop of Bremes, under whom there are sixe Suffragan Bishops, as the Bishop of Lubecke, Suerinensis, of Lebus, of Schleswicke, of Ratzenburg, and of Hamburg, heretofore an Archbishopricke. The Archbishop of Riga, hath sixe Suffragan Bishops under him, as the Bishop of Revel, Curiensis, the Bishop of Oesel, of Derpt. The free Bishops are, Misnensis, the Bishops of Bamberg, and Ratispon. Mercator reckoneth up these Vniversities: The Vniversity of Basil, of Colen, of Dillingensis, of Moguntinum, of Marpurg, of Lipswicke, of Ingolstade, of Heidelburg, of Cripswald, of Friburg, of Frankford neere Odera, of Erphord, of Prague, of Rostoch, of Coningsberg, of Trevers, of Tubingium, of Vienna, of Breslavia, of Wirtemberg, and Wurtzburg; out of which as out of many Trojan horses, an innumerable sort of learned men have issued. Which many, furnished with all kindes of Arts, doe witnesse: heere are very skilfull in the Latine, Greeke, and Hebrew tongues; here are eloquent Orators, subtile disputants, absolute Arithmeticians, and exact Astronomers: and no Country of Europe hath better Geometricians. I omit their accurate skill in Physicke.
Now I come to their manners. All Authors doe report that the Germaines are strong, and of a great stature. Tacitus saith they are gray eyde, red haird, large bodyed, and very strong. Hegesippus and Plinny doe call them great men: Sidonius calleth them cruell and fierce, Pausanias and Cassiodorus calleth them proud: Appianus, ungentle, Caesar calleth them barbarous, treacherous, and dissemblers: Pater•ulus saith that they are very crafty, and are naturally given to lye. But Tacitus who lived amongst them saith, that the souldiers are very couragious, and that it is a warlike Nation, but are neither cunning n•r crafty, but doe discover their owne mindes and secrets, and very faithfull in keeping secrets committed to them. Also the Emperour Iulianus in his Misopogne saith, that hee knoweth by experience that this Nation cannot flatter, but that they deale freely and plainely with all men. Ptolemy, 11. Quadrip. saith, that they must needes be of a quiet and peaceable disposition, in regard of the qualitie of the Countrie which they inhabit. Concerning their religion, whereby the mindes of men are held and bound together by the tye and feare of some Deity, the Germaines (as Caesar writeth) doe use no sacrifices, they account them onely to be gods whom they see, and from whom they receive some benefit: as the Sunne, and Vulcan, and the Moone. But afterward, as it appeareth in Tacitus, who lived under the reigne of the Emperour Nerva; they had many other gods: as Mercury, Hercules, Mars, Isis, and Berecinthia: also a certaine god called Al•is. The same Tacitus doth report also that Velleda and Aurinia were accounted as Gods. And the aforesaid Tacitus, maketh mention of the Temple of Tanfana, who saith that the Suevians doe reverence the mother Earth, which they call (as Lipsius saith) Aertha. But Plutarch and Clemens Alexandrinus doe affirme that they had no Images in their Temples, but certaine holy women, which Tacitus calleth Soothsayers, and Agathias, and Polyoenus doe call them Prophetesses, who did foretell future events, by the sound, and courses of Rivers. Aemilianus doth note, that they doe foretell things to come, by the flight of birds, by the inspection of entralls, and all other signes. But they did chiefely reverence Mercury or Teutates, and offered humaine sacrifices thereunto, as Tacitus witnesseth. In the time of peace there was no common Magistrate, but in the time of warre they did chuse Governours. They spent all their life time in military affaires: and to rob was accounted no disgrace, as we may reade in Caesar. Seneca saith, that their chiefe delight was the warres in which they were both borne and bread. If (as Tacitus witnesseth) they have peace any long time together at home in their owne Country, then they goe to the warres in other Nations. They cary about with them their mothers, wives, and children, who doe carry their knapsackes, and provision: neither are they afraide of plagues. They joyne battell with songs and warlike sounds. They count it a great disgrace to lose their buckler in the field, so that many after the battle for griefe thereof have hang'd themselves. Dion and Herodotus do report; that they will march over Rivers in regard they are lightly armed, and of an high stature. We reade in Appian that they doe contemne death, being perswaded that they shall live againe hereafter. They observe the rites of matrimony, and are content with their owne wives; so that few adulteries are committed; for which they have this present punishment: the woman that is taken in adulterie hath her haire cut off, and then her husband thrusts her out of doores before her kindred, and beates her along the Towne. Thus Tacitus reporteth. The Mothers doe nurse their owne childen, and doe not put them forth to Nurses. Caesar saith, that they account it unlawfull to wrong a stranger, which commeth unto them upon any occasion, so that they are ready to protect them from all injuries: their houses stand open, and they eate one with another. And here good manners prevaile more, than good lawes in other places. The greatest part of their food, as Caesar mentioneth, doth consist in milke, cheese, and flesh. Plinny witnesseth that they live by no other graine but Oates; and Mela addeth that in times of want they will eate raw flesh. At dinners as Athenaeus witnesseth, they have peeces of meate roasted, and they drinke milke and wine. Their fare is homely, as the flesh of wilde beasts, Crabbes, or sowre milke: their drinke is made of Barley and wheate, neither is there any Nation more magnificent in entertainment or in feasting. But as no man or Nation is without some vice, so they count it no shame to drinke night and day. Concerning their habit, Tacitus saith that they all weare a kinde of Cloake button'd before, which loosely hangeth over their shoulders: the same Tacitus saith, that the Germaines did not weare a loose garment but a straite bodyed garment, such as Sidonius saith the French did use. The women doe goe in apparell like the men. Heretofore the Germaines were strong of body, but rude, and ignorant of Arts. But now they doe make all kinde of excellent manufactures and workes, and most especially they are skilfull in casting of brasse, and in the knowledge of mettalls. In this Countrie brasse Ordinance and Printing were first invented, and the making of Clockes was found out: and lastly, Germany is such a Nursery of all Arts, that it doth perfect some, and findeth out other Inventions. Also it transporteth into Countries both neere and remote, the best Wines, Gold, Silver, Coppresse, Tinne, Lead, Quicksilver, Alume, and divers painting colours, also Corne, and divers other commodities.

1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome.

ALLEMAGNIA, or GERMANY, which may be considered in three great Parts, whereof
The first about the RHINE, may be subdivided into three other parts, to wit,
On this side the RHINE; where are
The French County,
Besanson,

Dole.

Lorraine,
Metz,

Nancy.

The Catholick Low Countries,
Anvers, or Antwerp,

Brusselles,

Gand, or Gaunt,

Lille,

Arras.

Upon the RHINE; where are
Alsace, or Alsatia,
Strasbourg,

Fribourg,

Brisac,

Haguenau.

Palatinate of the Rhine,
Hildeberg,

Wormes,

Spire,

The Electorates of
Mayence,

Treves,

Cologne.

The Estates of Cleves and Juliers,
Dusseldrop,

Wesel,

Juliers.

The Estates of the United Provinces,
Amsterdam,

Utrecht,

the Hague.

Beyond the RHINE; where are
Franconia,
Wirzbourg,

Nuremberg,

Francfort.

Hessie,
Cassel,

Marpurg.

Westphalie,
Munster,

Embden,

Soest.

The second about the DANUBE, may be also divided into three other parts, to wit,
Higher, or SOVABIA; which is divided into
Suisse, or Switzerland,
Basle,

Berne,

Zurich,

Geneve,

Coire.

Sovabia,
Ausbourg,

Constance,

Ulme,

Lindau,

Stutgard.

Mean, or BAVARIA; which is divided into
Tirol,
Inspruck,

Feldkirck,

Dutchy of Bavaria,
Munick,

Lanshout,

Ratisbone,

Saltisbourg,

Passau.

Palatinate of Bavaria, — Amberg.

Lower, or AUSTRICHE or AUSTRIA; where are
The Archbishoprick of Austria,
Vienne,

Lintz,

Crems.

The Hereditary Lands of Austria,
Stirie, Creacz,

Carinthie, St. Veit,

Carniola, Lau-bach,

Cilley, Cilley,

Vindis Marche, Metling.

The third about the EL•E, and ODER, may be divided into two parts, to wit,
The Highest comprehendeth the Estates of BOHEMIA; where are the
Kingdom of Bohemia,
Prague,

Cottenberg.

Pilsen,

Coningracz,

Budweiss,

Glatz.

Provinces incorperated to Bohemia, as
Silicle,
Breslau,

Lignitz,

Neisse,

Gros Glogau.

Lusacia,
Baudisseu,

Gorlitz,

Soraw.

Moravia,
Olmutz,

Brynne.

The Lowest comprehendeth SAXONY in general, which may be divided inco into the
Higher Saxony; where are
The Estates of Saxony,
Wittenberg,

Dreide,

Lipsick,

Erford.

The Marquisate of Brandenbourg,
Stendai,

Brandenbourg,

Berlin,

Lansperg.

Pomerania,
Stettin,

Straelsond.

Lower Saxony; where are
Two Archbishopricks,
Magdebourg,

Breme.

Three Bishopricks,
Ferden,

Hildesheim,

Halberstat.

Several Dutchies; among which are those of
Holsace,
Kille,

Gluckstad.

Meclebourg,
Rostock,

Suerin.

Lauvenbourg Lauvenbourg.

Lunenbourg, Lunenbourg.

Brunswick,
Brunswick,

Wolsenbuttel.

Imperial Cities,
Lubeek,

Hambourg,

Gos•a•.

GERMANY about the Rhine, may be considered
On this side the RHINE, in three Parts, to wit,
FRANCHE COUNTY, or BURGUNDY; where are
The Balliages of
Amont, — Gray.

Dole, Dole.

Aval, Salins.

And some Mannors of the Empire, as
The Archbishopr. and City of Besanson.

The County of Monbeliard.

LORRAINE; where are the Dutchies, &c. of
BARROIS,
Royal, — Bar-le-Duc.

Ducal, St. Michael.

LORRAINE, where are the Balliages of
Francois, Nancy.

Allemand, Vaudrevange.

Vauge, — Mirecourt.

Bishopricks, and Imperial Cities,
Metz,

Toul,

Verdun.

The CATHOLICK Low Country; where are
The Dutchies of
Brabant,
Louvain,

Brusselles.

Limbourg,
Limbourg,

Mastci•h.

Luxembourg,
Luxembourg,

Thionville.

The Counties or Earldoms of
Flanders,
Gand, or Gaunt,

Brugge,

Lille.

Artois,
Arras,

St. Omer.

Hay••aut,
Mons,

Valenciennes.

Namur, — Namur.

The Marquisate of the Empire, — Anvers, or Autwerp.

The Signiory of Malines, — Malines.

Also the
Archbishoprick, and Imperial City of — Cambray.

Bishoprick, and Imperial City of — Liege.

Upon the RHINE, in five Parts, viz.
ALSACE, or ALSATIA,
On this side the Rhine; where are
The Sungou, — Altkirck,

The Higher Alsace,
Ensisheim,

Blome.

The Lower Alsace,
Strasbourg,

Haguenau.

Beyond the Rhine, where are
The Brisgou,
Fribourg,

Brissac.

The Mormau, — Offenbourg.

The Marquisate of
Bade,

Durlach.

The PALATINATE of the Rhine, under the name of which may be understood
The Estates of the Palatinate,
Heidelberg,

Franken•al.

The Estates of the Princes of the House Palatinate,
Zweibru•k,

Simmere•.

The Bishopricks and Imperial Cities of
Spires,

Wormes.

The ELECTORATES Ecclesiasticks, or Archbishopricks of
Mayence,
Mayence,

Aschassenbourg.

Treves,
Treves,

Coblenz.

Cologne,
Cologne,

Bonne.

The Estates of the Succession of CLEVES and JULIERS,
To the Marquess of Brandenbourg, as
The Dutchy of Cleves, Wesel,

The County of Marck, Hamme.

To the Palatinate of New bourg, as
The Dutchy of Juliers, Juliers,

The Dutchy of Berg•or Mon•, Dusseldrop.

The Estates of the UNITED PROVINCES of the Low Countries; where are
The Dutchy of Guelders,
Nieumegue,

Arnheim.

The Counties of
Holland,
Amsterdam,

Dordrech•,

the Hague.

Zeland, — Mildebourg.

Zutphen, Zutphen.

The Signiories of
West Friezland, Lievarden.

Groningue, Groningue.

Utrecht, Utrecht.

Over-Ysel, Doventer.

And part of the Dutchy of Brabant, — Bosteduc.

Beyond the RHINE, in three Parts, to wit,
FRANCONIA; where are
The Ecclesiasticks, or
The Bishopricks of
Wirtzbourg,

Bamberg.

The Order of Teut, — Mergetheim.

The Laicks, or
The Marquisate of
Cullembach,

Onspach.

The Counties of
Holac, Weickers•eim,

Wertheim, Wertheim.

The Imperial Cities of
Nuremberg,

Francfort,

Schweifurt,

HESSE, or HESSIA, as it is divided into
Hesse, or Hessia,
Langraviat of
Cassel,

Marpurg.

County of Waldeck, Corbach.

Abbey of — Fulde.

Witteravia,—divers Counties,
Nassau,

Solins,

Hanau,

Isenbourg.

WESTPHALIA; where are
The Ecclesiasticks, or
The Bishopricks of
Munster,

Paderborne,

Minde.

The D. of Westphalia, Arensberg.

The Counties, &c. of
Embden, — Aurick.

Oldenbourg, Oldenbourg.

Hoye, Nienbourg,

Lippe, Lipstad,

Ravensberg, Herwood,

Benthem, — Benthem,

The Imperial Cities, as
Embden,

Zoest.

The Countries, which consisteth of Seventeen Provinces, to wit, of
Four Duchies, to wit
BRABANT; where are the Quarters of
Louvain,
Louvain,

Tilemond,

Ascot.

Brusselles,
Brusselles,

Nivelles.

Anvers,
Breda,

Berg op Zom,

Lire.

Saint Ulit.

Bosleduc,
Bosleduc,

Grave.

LIMBO'URG; where are
Limbourg,
Limbourg,

Vic de Mastric.

Adjacent Lands,
Fauquemont,

Dalem,

Rolduc.

LUXEMBOURG,
Luxembourg,

Thionville,

Arlon,

Bastoigne,

Monmedi,

Dam Villers,

GUELDRES, where are four Quarters; but that of ZUTPHEN is among the Counties,
Betuve,
Nieumegue,

Bommel,

Fort de Schenck.

Veluve,
Arnhem,

Harderwick.

Gueldres,
Ruremonde,

Gueldres,

Venlo,

Stefanswerdt,

Seven Counties, viz.
FLANDERS; which is divided in
Flanders Teutone,
Gand, or Gaunt,

Bruges,

Ipres,

Gravelines,

Dunkirke,

Ostend,

Newport,

Scluce.

Flanders Wallone,
Lille,

Douay,

Tournay,

Orchies.

Flanders Imperlale,
Alost,

Hulst,

Axel.

ARTOIS,
Wallone,
Arras,

Hesdinfert,

Bappaumes,

St. Pol.

Flamingant,
St. Omer,

Aire,

Bethune.

HAYNAUT,
Mons,

Valenciennes,

Maubeuge,

Avesnes,

Landrechies,

Philippeville,

Marienbourg.

NAMUR,
Namur,

Charlemont.

HOLLAND; which is divided into
North Holland,
Alemar,

Inchuse,

Horne.

South Holland,
Dort,

Delft,

Leyde, or Leyden,

Harlem,

Amsterdam,

Goude,

Rotterdam,

the Hague,

the Brill.

ZELAND,
Mildebourg,

Flushing,

Ziriczee.

ZUTPHEN,
Zutphen,

Doesbourg,

Grolle.

One Marquisate of the Empire, which consisteth but of the City of — Anvers, or Antwerp.

Five Signieuries, to wit,
UTRECHT, — Utrecht.

OVERYSSEL; where are the Quarters of
Saland,
Deventer,

Campen,

Swol.

Tuente, — Oldenzee,

Drente, — Coevorden.

WEST FRISE, or WEST-FRISELAND,
Leuvarden,

Dockum,

Franicker,

Staveren.

GRONINGUE, — Groningue:

MALINES, — Malines.

To which may be added the
Archbishoprick and Seignieury of CAMBRAY, — Cambray.

Bishoprick and Signieury of LIEGE; where are
Liege,

Tongres,

Maestricht,

Dinant,

Huy.

County of LINGEN, — Lingen.

The ESTATES, or UNITED PROVINCES of the LOW COUNTRIES, possessed
in EUROPE,
The most Northern part of the LOW COUNTRIES, where are eight Provinces, or Parts; to wit the
Dutchy of GUELDERS,
Quarter of Betuve,
Nieumegue,

Bommel,

Fort de Schenck.

Quarter of Veluve,
Arnhem,

Harderwick.

Counties of
HOLLAND,
North Holland,
Alcrnar,

Horne,

Inchuse.

South Holland,
Dordrecht,

Harlem,

Delft,

Leyde, or Leyden,

Amsterdam,

Goude,

Rotterdam,

the Hague,

the Brill,

Gorckum,

St. Guitremberg.

ZELAND,
Mildebourg,

Ziriczee,

Flessing,

Tolen.

ZUTPHEN,
Zutphen,

Doesbourg.

Grolle.

Signleurles of
UTRECHT,— Utrecht.

OVER-YSSEL,
Devent•r,

Campen,

Swol,

Covorden.

WEST FRISE,
Lieuvarden,

Harlingen,

Franicker,

Dockum,

Staveren.

GRONINGUE, — Groningue.

And in the Neighbouring Estates of the LOW COUNTRIES
Part of the Dutchy of CLEVES,
Wesel,

Rees,

Emmerick,

Goch,

Gennep,

Part of the Estate of COLOGNE,
Rhinsberg,

Orsoy.

And in the County of EMBDEN, — Roeroort.

And in the most Southern part of the LOW COUNTRY,
Part of the Dutchy of BRABANT,
Bosleduc,

Breda,

Berg op Zom,

Willemftad,

Steenberg,

Lillo.

Part of the Dutchy of LIMBOURG, — Maestricht.

Part of the County of FLANDERS,
Escluse,

Ardenbourg,

Middelbourg,

Isendi•k,

Biervliet,

Ter-Neuse.

Philippine,

Patience,

Lifkenshoeck.

In AFRICA, or AFRIQUE,
AFRICA, or LYBIA, Upon the Coast, or near
The Country of the NEGRO'S,
Arguin,

Goeree,

GUINEE,
St. George de la Mine,

Fort of Nassau.

AETHIOPIA, The Isles of
St. THOMAS, — Cuidad de Pavoasan,

LOANDA, St. Pol de Loanda.

In ASIA,
And in the East INDIES, On the Coasts of
COROMANDEL,

SIAM,
Gueldres.

Malaca.

And in the East INDIAN ISLES,
On the Coasts of
Isle of CEYLAN,

Isle of JAVA,
Colombo,

Jacatra, or Batavia.

Part of the MOLUCQUES; to wit, in
TERNATE,
Talouque,

Maylaye,

Tacomma.

MOTIR,— Nassau.

MAQUIAM,
Taffason,

Naffaguia, or Maurice,

Tabillola, or Telebola.

BACHIAN,
Labolia,

Gamineduore.

About the MOLUCQUES; to wit, in
GILOLO, — Zabou.

AMBOYNE,
Coubella,

Lovio,

Hittou,

Ambeyne.

NERA, Isle of Banda,
Nassau,

Belgique,

Revenge.

POLEWAY. Isle of Banda,
Nassau,

Belgique,

Revenge.

Between CHINA and JAPON, HERMOSO, — Zeland.

In AMERICA, or AMERIQUE MERIDIONALE;
Part of BRAZILE; where are the Capitanies of
FERNAMBUCO, — Olinde.

TAMRACA, Tamaraca.

PARAYBA, Parayba.

RIO GRANDE, Potengi.

CIARA, Ciara.

MARAGNAN, — Maragnan.

And near the Coast of VENEZUELA, the Isle of Curacao.

GERMANY about the Danube, may be considered in three Parts, viz.
Higher, or SOVABIA, which is subdivided into two parts, to wit,
SOVABE, or SOVABIA; where are
The Bishopricks of
Ausbourg,
Dilengen,

Fuessen.

Constance, — Mersbourg.

Coire, — Marsoila.

The Dutchy of — Wirtenberg,
Stutgard,

Tubingue.

The Marquisate of — Burgau, — Guntzbourg.

Part of the Marquisate of — Baden Durlach, — Baden.

Thirteen Counties, among the which are
Furstenberg, — Me•kir•k.

Hohenberg, — Ehingen.

Rhinfeld,
Rhinfenden,

Lauffenbourg.

Divers Baronies, &c. The Barony of — Waldbourg.

Thirty five Cities of the EMPIRE; among the which
Beyond the Danube, are
Ausbourg,

Constance,

Lindau,

Uberlingue,

Memmingue,

Kempten,

Ravensbourg.

On this side the Danube, are
Ulme,

Norlingue,

Drinckespuhel,

Awlen,

Halle,

Hailbron,

Eslingue,

Guemunde.

SWISSES, or SWITZERLAND; under the name of which is understood
Thirteen Cantons, where of The principal Cities are
Basle,

Berne,

Zurich,

Lucerne,

Soleurne,

Fribourg,

Schasshouse.

Twelve or Thirteen Allies; among the which are
The Abby and City of St. Gall.

The Bishoprick of Sion.

The Grisons, Coire.

The Bishoprick of — Porentruy.

The Cities of
Geneve,

Mulhausen,

Newchastel,

Rotweil.

Twenty, or Twenty five Subjects; among the which are
The County of — Chiavenne.

The Val Teline,
Sondrio,

Wormes, or Bormio.

The Balliages and Cities of
Lugan,

Bellin•one,

Bade,

Frawenfeld.

Mean, or BAVARIA; which is divided into three parts, and where are
The Estates of the Dukedom of TIROL; which comprehendeth
The County of Tirol; where are
Inspruck,

Tirol,

Cufsta•ne.

Towards the Lake of Constance, the Counties of
Feldkirch,

Bregaz.

The Protection of the Bishopricks of
Trente,

Brixen.

The Estates of the Dutchy of BAVARIA; where are comprised
The Dutchy of Bavaria,
Higher,
Munich,

Landsperg,

Lower,
Landshout,

Straubing.

Between the Ecclesiasticks,
The Archbishoprick of — Saltzbourg.

The Bishopricks of
Passau,

Ratisbone,

Frissingue.

The Provost of — Berehtogade.

Between the Laicks,
The Palatinate of — Newbourg.

The County of — Hag.

Cities of the Emperour
Ratisbone,

Ingolstat,

Dona-wert.

The Estates of the Palatinate of BAVARIA; which are
In the Country of the Palatinate of Bavaria, — Amberg.

To the Princes of the House Palatine, Sultzbach.

In the Palatinate of Newbourg, Burglenfelt.

To the Bishoprick of Aichster, Aichster.

In the Langrave of Leuchtenberg, — Pfrein•.

Lower, or AUSTRICHE, or AUSTRIA; which is divided into two parts, to wit,
Archbishoprick of AUSTRIA,
Higher,
Lintz,

Ens, or Ems,

Wells,

Freystat.

Mean,
Crems,

Horne,

Stain.

Lower,
Vienne,

Newstat,

Bade.

And the Hereditary Estates of AUSTRIA; to wit,
The Dutchy of Stitle,
Higher, — Pruck:

Lower,
Graecz,

Pettau.

The Dutchy of Carnithie,
Higher,
Villach,

Gurcz.

Mean, St. Veit.

Lower, — Lavemunde.

The Dutchy of Carniole,
Higher, or Seiche,
Gorice,

Gradisque,

Czirknicz.

Lower, — Laubach.

The County of Cilley, — Cilley.

The Windishmarch, or Marquisate of Vindes,
Metling.

Rudolsswerd.

The SUISSES, or SWITZERLAND; and that which we understand under the name, ought to be considered in three Parts, to wit, in
Thirteen Cantons, which (following their Antiquity) are
URI, 1308

SUISSE, 1308

UNDERWALD, 1308

LUCERNE, — 1332

ZURICH, — 1351

ZUG, 1352

GLARIS, 1352

BERNE, — 1353

FRIBOURG, 1481

SOLEURNE, 1481

BASLE, 1501

SCHASFHOUSE, 1501

APPENZEL, — 1513or following their Ranges, &c.

Zurich, Protestant,
Zurich,

Winterthur,

Stein,

Grisfensee,

Eglifou.

Berne, Protestant,
Berne,

Lausanne,

Yverdon,

Nyon,

Mouldon,

Morges,

Peterlingen,

Vevay,

Lemzbourg,

Burgdo•f,

Aarbourg,

Bruck,

Thun.

Lucerne, Catholick,
Lucerne,

Sursce,

Sempach:

Uri, Catholick, — Altorf.

Suisse, Catholick, Suitz, or Suisse,

Underwald, Catholick, Stantastad.

Zug, Catholick, Zug.

Glaris, Catholick and Protestant, Glaris.

Basle, Protestant, Basle.

Fribourg, Catholick,
Fribourg,

Corbers,

Gryers.

Soleurne, Catholick, Soleurne.

Schafshouse, Protestant, Schafshouse.

Appenzel, Catholick, — Appenzel.

Their Allies; which are
The Abbe and City of St. GAL, in Suisse,
Wyll.

St. Gall.

The Bishoprick of SION, or County of Valais,
Sittin, or Sion,

Martinath.

The GRISONS, divided into three Leagues or Confederacies; as
Higher, or Grise,
Ilantz,

Dissentis.

Of the House of God,
Coir, or Chur;

Furstenow,

Puschia•e.

Of the ten Communalties,
Tafas,

Meyenfeld.

The Cities
In Alsace, or Alsatia, — Mulhausen,

In Sovabia, — Rotweil.

Towards the Franche County,
Bienne,

Neuchastel,

Vallangin.

In Savoy, — Geneve.

The Bishopricks of
Basle in Suisse,
Porentruy,

Nuenftar, or Bonneville,

Delmont.

Constance, in Sovabia and Suisse,
Mersbourg,

Arbon,

Bischofszel,

Bollingen,

Keiserstul,

Clingenow,

Reichenau,

Steekburne.

Coire, in the Grisons, — Marsoilachau.

Their Subjects, viz.
Subjects to the Cantons, as
At Glaris, the County of — Werdenberg.

Ar Zurich, the County of Altsax, — Foriteckchau.

At Suisse and Glaris, the Balliages of
Gastal,

Uznach▪

At Berne and Fribourg, the Balliages of
Murat,

Orbe,

Granson,

Schuartzembourg.

Of the three most ancient Cantons, the Balliages in Italy, of
Bellinzone,

Valbrune,

Polese, or Riviere.

To the same, and at Glaris, the City and County of Rapperchuil.

To the seven Ancient Cantons
Part of Turgow,
Dissenhofen,

Psin.

The Franck Provinces, — Meyenberg.

The County of Sargans,
Sargans,

Wallenstad, or Riva.

The City of — Fraenfeld.

To the seven first in Range and Apenzel, the Balliages of Rhintal,
Rhineck,

Alstetten.

To the eight Ancient Cantons, the Balliages in Suisse of
Bade,

Bremgarten,

Melingen.

To the twelve more Ancient Cantons, the Balliages in Italy of
Lugan,

Lucarue,

Mendris,

Val Madie.

Subjects to the Allies, as
To the Abbe of St. Gal, the County of Toggenburg, Leichtensteg.

To the Bishoprick of Sion, towards Savoy,
St. Morice,

Montech,

Hochtal, or Val d'Aux.

The County of Chiavenne,
Chiavenne,

Pleurs, Ruynee.

The Valtelline,
Morbegno,

Sondrio,

Tirano.

The County of — Worms, or Bormio.

And to the same the Protection of the Signieury of Haldenstein.

GERMANY about the ELBE, and the ODER, containeth in its
Higher Part, The Estates of BOHEMIA, which may be divided into the
Kingdom of BOHEMIA; where are
Bohemia, particularly so called,
Prague,

Cuttenberg,

Pilsen,

Coningracz,

Budweiss,

Leutmaritz,

Caurzim.

The Quarter of
Egra, or Heb,

Elenbogen or Locker.

And the County of — Glarz,

Provinces incorporated to the Kingdom of BOHEMIA; to wit,
The Dutchy of Silesie,
Breslaw,

Ligni••,

Neyse,

Gros Glogan,

Brieg,

Toppau,

Crossen,

Jaggcrendorff.

The Marquisate of M—oravia,
Olmutz,

Brynn,

Znaym,

Iglau,

Radisch,

Neustad.

The Marquisate of Lusace,
Bautzen,

Gorlitz,

Sittau,

Sorau,

Guben,

Cotous.

Lower Part SAXONY may be divided into the
Higher SAXONY, where are found
The Estates of the Dukes of SAXONY,
The Dutchy of Saxony, Wittenberg.

The Marquisate of Misue,
Dreiden,

Misue,

Torgaw,

Lipsick,

Mersbourg,

Naumbourg.

The Dutchy of — Altembourg.

Voitland, — Zuickaw.

Turinge
Langraviat, Erford.

Dutchies,
Jeve,

Cobourg,

Isenach.

Counties,
Schwartzenbourg,

Mansfeld,

Smalculd,

Gleichen.

Abbess, — Quedelimberg,

Abby, — Salsfeldt.

Imperial Cities,
Mulhausen.

Northausen.

Principality of Anhalt,
Dessau,

Bernebourg.

The Estate of the Marquisate of BRANDENBOURG,
Alt-Marck, or Viel•e-Marck,
Stendal,

Havelberg.

Mittel-Marck, or Moyenne-Marck,
Brandebourg,

Berlin,

Francfort on the Oder.

New-Marck,
Landsberg,

Sterneberg,

The Dutchy of POMERANIA, which hath sometime been divided into the Dutchies of
Stettin,
Stettin,

Anclam.

Wolgast, — Wolgast.

Gutskow, — Gripsuald.

Barth,
Straelsond,

Barth,

Rugen, Isle and Dutchy, Bergen.

Ancien, — Stargart.

Cassubie, Colberg.

Vandalie, Stolpe.

Pomerelia, — Lowenbourg.

Lower SAXONY, where are found
The Archbishopricks of
Magdebourg,
Magdebourg,

Halle in Saxony.

Breme,
Breme,

Stade.

The Bishopricks of
Ferden,

Hiddelsheira,

Halberstat.

And to the Archbishopr, of Mayence, the Country of Eychfeld, Dudderstat.

Divers Dutchies, the chief of which are
Holstein, or Holsacia,
Kyel,

Segeberg,

Gluckstad

Lunebourg,
Luneburg,

Celle,

Harbourg,

Danneberg.

Brunswick,
Brunswick,

Wolfenbuttel.

Grunbenhagen, — Limbeck.

Gottingen, — Gottingue.

Lawenbourg,
Lawenbourg,

Hadler.

Mecklenbourg,
Wismar,

Rostock,

Scierin or Schwerin,

Gustraw.

Imperial Cities; among which are
Lubeck,

Hambourg,

Stoade.

The Estates of the Crown of BOHEMIA are
The Kingdom of BOHEMIA, under which ought to be understood
BOHEMIA, as it is divided into Fifteen Provinces, where are Forty and three Royal Cities, to wit, in the Provinces of
Pregensko; where is — Prague:

Caurzimsko; where are
Caurzim,

Coln,

Bohmish-Broda.

Hradecsko,
Kralow-Hradecz, G. Kinigingretz.

Jaromirz,

Bydchaff,

Trantnow, G. Konighoff.

Krabedur.

Chrudimsko,
Chrudim,

Bamberg, G. Paumberg.

Hohemauth,

Policzka.

Craslawsko,
Hora, G. Cuttemberg.

Czaslaw.

Brechynsko,
Budiejowize, G. Budweiss.

Tabor,

Pelhrzimow,

Teyn suv Wultaw.

Wltawsko, — Sedlezany.

Podbredsko, — Beraun. G. Bern.

Prachensko,
Piseck,

Suschitz,

Wodnany,

Prachatitz.

Pilsensko,
Pilsen,

Klataw,

Strzibro, G. Meisf.

Domazliez, G. Tauss.

Rockissan.

Ziatecsko,
Ziatecz, G. Satz.

Most,

Launy, G. Bruck.

Cadan,

Commota.

Rakownicsko, — Rakonick.

Slansko,
Slaneywreh, G. Sehlan.

Welwary.

Litomierziesko,
Litomierz, Leitomeritz.

Auski,

Melnick.

Boleslawsko,
Nymburg,

Boleslaw. G. Jung Bunozel.

And the Quarters of
Hebsko, — Heb. G. Egra.

Loketsko, — Loket. G. Elnbogen.

Glatzko, — Glatz.

The Provinces incorporated to the Kingdom of BOHEMIA, to wit,
The Dutchy of SILESKA, as it is divided into Three Dutchies, Fifteen Principalities, and Four Baronies; viz.
Gros Glogaw, Dutchy,
Gros Glogaw,

Sprottaw,

Freystadt.

Crossen, Dutchy, — Crossen.

Slagan, Dutchy, — Sagan.

Jawer, Principality,
Jawer,

Lemberg,

Buntslaw,

Hirschberg.

Lignitz, Princip.
Lignitz,

Goldberg.

Wohlaw, Princ.— Wohlaw,

Olsze, Principality, Olsze.

Bernstadt, Principality, Bernstadt.

Breslaw Princ.
Breslaw,

Namslaw.

Schweidnitz, Principality, Schweidnitz.

Brieg, Princ.
Brieg,

Olaw.

Monsterberg, Princ. — Monsterberg.

Neiss, or Grotkaw, Princ.
Neiss,

Grotkaw,

Zuckmantel.

Oppelen, Princ.
Oppelen,

Newstadt,

Klein Glogaw.

Ratibor, Principality, — Ratibor.

Jegerndorff, Princ.
Jegerndorff, or Carnow,

Lubschitz.

Troppaw, Princ. — Troppaw.

Teschen, Principality, Teschen.

Among the Baronies are
Wartenberg,

Pless.

The Marquisate of MORAVIA, as it may be divided into the Dutchies of
Olmutz,

Brinn,

Znaim,Their Cities are

Olmutz,

Brinn,

Znaim,

Jglaw,

Hardisch,

Newstadt,

Kremsit,

Krumlow,

Meseritz,

Niclasburg,

Polna,

Weiskirth.

The Marquisate of LUSACE, or LUSATIA, now engaged to the Duke of Saxony, is divided into the
Higher Lusatia,
Baudissen, or Pautzen,

Gorlitz.

Sittaw,

Lawben,

Camentz,

Liebaw.

Lower •usatia,
Soraw,

Guben,

Cotbus.

The House of AUSTRICHE, or AUSTRIA, in divers Branches and Titles, possessed and lying within and near GERMANY, to wit,
AUSTRICHE, or AUSTRIA; under the name of which may be understood,
The Archbishoprick of Austriche,
Vienna,

Crems,

Lintz.

The Dutchy of
Stirie,
Grecz,

Pruck.

Carinthie,
St. Veit,

Lavemunde,

Grucz, or Straspurg.

Carniole, — Laubach.

The County of — Cilley, — Cilley.

The Marquisate of Vinde, or Vindishmarch, — Metlin,

And towards Italy,
the County of Gorice,
Gorice,

Gradisque.

and part of Istrie,
Triefte,

Pedena.

The Kingdom of HUNGARIE, or HONGRIE, in part; where are
In the higher — Hungarie,
Presbourg, or Poson,

Sopron. or Oedenbourg,

Raab, or Javarin,

Comore,

Fileck,

Cassau,

Tokay,

Varadin.

In the higher — Esclavione,
Zagrab, or Agram,

Copronitza.

In the higher — Croacie, — Sisseg.

And in the — Morlaquie,
Sen•, pr. Senia,

St. Veit am Flaum.

The Kingdom of BOHEMIA, and the Estates incorporated to Bohemi• to wit,
The Kingdom of — Bohemia,
Prague,

Cutrenberg,

Pilsen,

Co•••gracz,

Rudweis.

The Dutchy of — Silesie,
Breslau,

Lignitz,

Neisse,

Gros Glogau.

The Marquisates of
Lusacia,
Baudissen,

Gorlltz,

Sittau,

Sorau.

Moravia,
Olmutz,

Brinne,

Znaym.

The County of — Glarz, — Glarz.

The Signieury of — Egra, — Egra, or Heb:

TIROL; under the name of which are
The Counties of
Tirol,
Inspruck,

Hall,

Cufstain.

Veldkirck, or — Feldkirck.

Bregentz, — Bregentz.

The Protection of the Bishopricks of
Trente,

Brixen.

In SOVABIA, the
Marquisate of Burgau,
Burgau,

Guntzbourg.

County of Hohenberg,
Rotenbourg,

Ehingen,

Horb.

City of — Yillengen,

Lantgraviat of Nellenbourg, Stockach.

In SUISSE, or SWITZERLAND, the
County of Rhinselden,
Rhinselden,

Lauffenbourg.

City of — Waldshout.

County of Hapspurg, or Habsbourg.

Protection of the Cities of
Constance,

Celle.

Within or near the Grisous,
Castelz,

Pludentz.

In ALSATIA, or ALSACE, the
County of Pfirt, or Ferrette, Altkirck.

Part of Sungou,
Tannes,

Befort.

Langraviat of the higher Alsatia,
Enfisheim,

Keisersperg,

Heiligen Creutz.

Part of Brisgou,
Fribourg, in Brisgou,

Brisac,

Newenbourg.

The Palatinate of the RHINE in part, where are many Cities, among the which
Oppenheim,

Franckendal.

BOURGOGNE in part, to wit, the County of Bourgogne; where are
Dole,

Gray,

Salins.

The Catholick LOW COUNTRY, for the most part; where are
The Dutchies of
And the Charollois, in part, Charolles.

Brabant,
Leuvain,

Brusselles.

Limbourg, — Limbourg:

Luxembourg,
Luxembourg,

Thionville.

Guelderland, in part, Ruremonde.

The Counties of
Flanders,
Gand, or Gaunt,

Lille.

Artois,
Arras,

St. Omer.

Hainault,
Mons,

Valenciennes.

Namur, — Namur.

The Marquisate of the Empire, where is — Anvers, or Antwerp.

The Signieury of Malines, — Malines.

And near the LOW COUNTRY,
The Archbishoprick and Signieury of Cambray, Cambray.

The County of Linghen, — Lighen

GERMANY AND BELGIUM; Or, THE Low Countries.
1.169GERMANY is in the midst of those three parts which we have placed in the middle of Europe, and extends it self from 45 ½ unto 54 ½ degrees of Latitude, and from the 28th unto the 41 of Longitude. This position shews, that it lies in the middle of the Temperate Zone.

This Germany may be considered in three great parts, of which each may be subdivided into three others. We will call the great parts, Germany about the Rhine, Germany about the Danube, and Germany about the Elbe and the Oder; all which, with its lesser parts are taken notice of in the Geographical Tables of Germany, according to which method we will proceed; and then the first will be the Franche County, or BƲRGƲNDY, which is bounded with Bress, Switzerland, Lorraine, and Champaine. Its ancient Inhabitants were the Hedui, who first called Julius Caesar into France, and its People are at present esteemed warlike, marching under the Colours of divers Princes, and are known by the name of Walloons. It is a Country so fertil, that it hath been called the Flower of France, within whose bounds some do esteem it. It hath for its chief places 1. Besanson, the Metropolis of Burgundy, seated on the banks of the Doux, a City of good strength and beauty, and made an Ʋniversity by the commands of Charles the Fifth, and Pope Julio the Third. 2. Dole, in the Balliage of Dole, a Town of great strength, riches and beauty, famous for its Colledge of Jesuites: 3. Gray, in the Balliage of Amont; and 4. Salius, in the Balliage of Aval, of some account for its rich Salt Fountain. Besides these places in Burgundy are numbred 20 walled Towns, and about 160 Lordships.

1.170LORRAINE, bordering on Burgundy, famous for having had for its Duke, Godfrey, Sirnamed Bulloigne, the Recoverer of the Holy Land from the Turks; its Dukes now enjoy little else save the Title, the Country being seized by the French. It is of a fertil Soil, affording plenty of Corn and Wine, and hath store of Salt. Its chief places are 1. Nancy, in the Balliage of Francois, once dignified with the Seat of the Duke; 2. Vandrevange; 3. Mirecourt; 4. Vancoleur, the Birth-place of Joan de Pucelle; 5. Pont-a-Mason, so named by reason of its Bridge over the Mosa; 6. Metz, and 7. Toul.

1.171Between this Province and Champaine lieth the Country of BARROIS, and belongeth to Lorrain, whence the eldest Sons of these Dukes were styled Princes of Barri. Its chief places are Bar-le-Duc, and St. Michael.

1.172The Catholick LOW COƲNTRIES may be contained under the Dukedoms of Brabant, Limbourg, and Luxembourg; the Earldoms of Flanders, Artois, Haynaut, and Namur; the Marquisate of the Empire; the Signiory of Malines, &c. The whole Country is exceeding fertil, yet found not very advantagious to the Spaniards, who are Masters of it.

1.173BRABANT, for the most part of an ungrateful Soil, yet well inhabited and stored with walled Towns and Villages; the chief amongst which are 1. Lovaine, a fair and large City, being about four miles in circuit within its Walls, and six without, wherein are many delightful Gardens and Meadows, and is of note for its Ʋniversity, where there is a Seminary for English Jesuits. 2. Brussels, a City for its fairness and elegancy of its Buildings (its extent being as large as Lovaine) giveth place to few in the Netherlands. It is at present the residence of the Spanish Governour for the Low Countries; and 3. Breda, once the Seat of the Prince of Orange, till taken by the Spaniards.

1.174To the Dukedom of Brabant doth belong the Marquisate of the EMPIRE, whose chief place is Anvers, or Antwerp, seated on the Schelde, out of which it hath eight Channels cut, the biggest of which are capable to receive about 100 great Ships, which doth much facilitate its Trade; it is a fair and large City, being about seven or eight miles in circuit within its Walls, which are strong, high, and broad enough for Coaches to pass, on which the Nobility and Gentry commonly use to recreate themselves. In this City are abundance of Painters and Gravers, whose work is well received abroad. To this Dukedom doth also belong the Signiory of Malines, whose chief place bears the same name: likewise the Archbishoprick and Imperial City of Cambria, of good account; and the Bishoprick and Imperial City of Liege, seated on the Meuse, a Town of good beauty, being so filled with fair Abbies and Monasteries, that it is called the Paradice of the Priests.

1.175LIMBOƲRG hath many good Towns, the chief of which are 1. Limbourg, seated on the Banks of the Weser, and giveth name to the Dutchy. 2. Mastrich, a place of great strength, being held almost impregnable, yet was gained lately by the French; but through the assistance of the English, under the command of his Grace, James Duke of Monmouth. 3. Dalen, fortified with a Castle, &c.

1.176LƲXEMBOƲRG, Northwards of Lorrain, said to contain about 1000 Villages, and 23 walled Towns, the chief of which are 1. Luxembourg, seated on the Elze. 2. Thionville, which, with the other places, suffered much in the time of the Wars betwixt France and Spain.

1.177In this Province is the famous Forrest of Ardenna, once about 500 miles in compass, now scarce 90; and in it, or on its edges, is the no less famous Waters of the Spaw, so much frequented by the Europeans in and about the Month of July, being found exceeding good for several Diseases in the body Man.

FLANDERS:

1.178FLANDERS should be the most famous of all these Countries, since it communicates its name to them all; it is divided into Tutone, Wallone, and Imperiale. The chief Cities and places in this Earldom are 1. Ghent, whose Walls are seven miles in compass, and was once of great beauty; but now through the Seditiousness of its Inhabitants it is much ruinated, a good part of it being wast-ground; it is watered by the Rivers Scheld and Ley, which run through the City and make 26 Islands, which are conjoyned by 98 Bridges. This place is particularly famous for being the Birth-place of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. 2. Bruges, seated on a large and deep Channel of the Sea, from which it is distant about three Leagues; once a famous Mart Town, but now of small account as to matters of Traffick, 3. Ipres, seated on a River so called, a Town of great strength. 4. Graveling, or Gravelines, feated on the Sea-shoar, a place of good strength; and 5. Lisle, of some account. The four principal Ports in Flanders are, 1. Dunkirk, now in the possession of the French, a place of good strength, especially of late, when the English were Masters of it; nigh to which is the impregnable Fort of Mardike, also so made by the English. The Inhabitants of this Town are found very troublesom on the Seas, to those that are their Enemies. 2. Ostend, an exceeding strong place, as is manifest by its holding out a Siege of three years, three months, three weeks, and odd days, against the Arch-Duke; nigh to which was fought that bloody Battel in 1660, between the Arch-Duke Albertus, and the States, where (by the valour of the English) the Victory was gained: and 3. Sluce, seated at the Mouth of the Channel of Bruges, where it enjoys a fair and commodious Haven, capable to receive about 500 Sail of good Ships; now subject to the States of Holland.

Throughout all Flanders are a great many Religious-houses, and Nunneries, which are filled with vertuous Gentlewomen (for the most part, Maidens) who live a Religious life, and at spare times makes curious Works, which are disposed of by the Lady Abbess.

1.179The Earldom of ARTOIS, North of Flanders, is divided into Wallone and Flamingat, and said to contain about 750 Villages, and 12 walled Towns; the chief among which are 1. Arras, where the Tapestry Hangings, and Cloths of Arras were first invented and made. 2. Hesdinfert, a very strong Frontier Town towards Picardy; 3. Bappaumes, 4. St. Omer, and 5. Aire.

1.180The Earldom of HAYNAƲLT, West of Flanders, is said to number about 900 Villages, and 24 Towns; the chief amongst which are 1. Mons, an ancient and strong Town; 2. Valenciennes, so seated on the Scheld that it cannot be besieged, except with three Armies at one time. 3. Maubeugel; 4. Avesnes, about which are digged excellent white Stones for building; 5. Landrechies, and 6. Philippeville.

1.181The Earldom of NAMƲR, North of Brabant, hath about 180 Villages, and 4 walled Yowns, viz. Namur, Charlemont, Bovines, and Valencourt. This Country is very fertil in Grains, hath store of Mines of Jasper, all sorts of Marble, and abundance of Iron.

Under the subdivision of the Provinces upon the Rhine, may be comprehended Alsatia, the Palatinate of the Rhine, the Archbishopricks and Electorates on the Rhine, the Estates of the Succession of Cleves and Julier, and the Ʋnited Provinces of the Low Countries, &c.

1.182ALSATIA, Westwards of Lorrain, hath for its chief places, 1. Strasbourg, formerly Argentina, because here the Romans received the Tribute of the Conquered Nations, seated in Lower Alsatia near the Rhine, from which here is a Channel cut for the conveyance of Commodities. This City is about 7 miles in circuit, is a good place of strength, and famous for its many Rareties; as its admirable Clock, a description of which I shall here set down, which was given me by an Ingenious person, who took this particular account thereof. FOR the curiousness of the Work it self I cannot set it forth, neither can any man take pleasure of the Workmanship, but such as see it. In the whole work there are Nine things to be considered, which ascend up one above another, as the description sheweth, whereof eight are in the Wall; the ninth, (and that the most wonderful) standeth on the ground, three foot or such a matter from the Ground and Wall, and that is a great Globe of the Heavens perfectly described, in which are three Motions; one of the whole Globe, which betokeneth the whole Heavens, and moveth about from the East to the West in four and twenty hours: the second is of the Sun, which runneth through the Signs there described, (by that Artificial motion it hath) once every year: the third is of the Moon, which runneth her course in 28 days. So that in this Globe you may view (as if you had the Heavens in your hand) the Motions of the whole Heavens, the motion of the Sun and Moon, every Minute of an hour, the rising and falling of every Star (among which Stars are the Makers of this work Dassipodius and Wolkinstenius) described, yea better than in the true Heavens, because here the Sun darkneth them not by day, nor the Moon by night. The Instruments of these Motions are hid in the Body of a Pelican, which is portraied under the Globe. The Pole lifted up to the Elevation of Strasburgh, and noted by a fair Star made in Brass: the Zenith is declared by an Angel placed in the midst of the Meridian. The second thing to be observed (which is the first on the Wall) are two great Circles one within another, the one eight foot, the other nine foot broad, the uttermost moveth from the North to the South once in a year, and hath two Angels, the one on the North-side, which pointeth every day in the Week, the other on the South-side, which pointeth what day shall be one half year after. The Inner circle moveth from South to North once in a hundred years, and hath many things described about it; as the Year of the World, the Year of our Lord, the circle of the Sun, the processions of the Aequinoctials, with the change of the Solstitial points, which things fall out by the motion which is called Trepidationis: the Leap-year, the Movable Feasts, and the Dominical Letter, or Golden Number, as it turneth every year. There is an immovable, Index, which incloseth for every year all these things within it; the lower part of which Index is joyned to another round Circle, which is immovable wherein the Province of Alsatia is fairly described, and the City of Strasburgh. On both sides of these Circles on the Wall, the Eclipses of the Sun and Moon are, which are to come for many years, even so many years as the Wall might orderly contain. The third thing which is to be seen, a little above this, is a weekly motion of the Planets as they name the day, as on Sunday the Sun is drawn about in his Charriot; accordingly as the day is spent, and so drawn into another place, so that before he be full in, you shall have Monday, that is, the Moon clean forth, and the Horses of Mars's Charriot putting forth their heads; and so it is for every day in the week: On this side there are nothing but dumb Pictures to garnish the Wall. The fourth thing, which is next above this, is a Dias for the Minutes of hours, so that you shall see every Minute pass. Two beautiful Pictures of two Children are joyned to either side of this; he which is on the North-side hath a Scepter in his hands, and when the Clock striketh, he telleth orderly every stroke. He on the South-side hath a fine Hour-glass in his hand, which runneth just with the Clock; and when the Clock hath stricken, he turneth his Hour-glass, which is run forth, and holdeth it running. The first thing which is next above the Minute-Dial, is the Dial for the hour, containing the half parts also: the uttermost circumference containeth the hours, but within it is made a curious and perfect Astrolabe, whereby is shewed the motion of every Planet, his aspect, and in what Sign, what degree, and what hour every one is in every hour of the day; the opposition likewise of the Sun and Moon, and the Head and Tail of the Dragon. And because the Night darkneth not the Sun, nor the Day the Moon, or other Planets, therefore their Courses are here exactly seen at all times. The sixth thing, which is next unto this, is a Circle wherein the two Signs of the Moon, rising and falling, at two several hollow places it is seen at what state she is, and her Age is declared by an Index, which is wholly turned about once every Month. The seventh thing, which is about this, are four little Bells, whereon the Quarters of the hour are strucken; at the First quarter cometh forth a little Boy, and striketh the first Bell with an Apple, and so goeth and stayeth at the fourth Bell until the next Quarter; then cometh a lusty Youth, and he with a Dart striketh two Bells, and succeedeth into the place of the Child; at the Third cometh forth a man in Arms, with a War-Mace in his hand, and striking three Bells he succeedeth into the place of the young Man; at the Fourth quarter cometh forth an Old man with a Staff, having a Crook at the end, and he with much ado, because he is Old, striketh the four Bells, and standeth at the Fourth quarter until the next Quarter; forthwith to strike the Clock cometh Death: in the Room above this, for this is the eight thing, (and this understand, that at every Quarter cometh he forth, thinking to catch each of those former Ages away with him;) but at a contrary side, in the same Room where he is, cometh Christ forth, and driveth him in: but when the last Quarter is heard, Christ giveth him leave to go to the Bell which is in the midst, and so striketh he with his Bone according to the number of the hours, and there he standeth at the Bell, as the Old man doth at his quarter Bell, until the next Quarter, and then go they in both together. The ninth and last thing in this right Line, is the Town at the top of the Work, wherein is a noble pleasant Chime, which goeth at three, seven, and eleven of the Clock, every time a diverse Tune to one of the Psalms; and at Christmas, Easter, and Whitsontide, a Thanksgiving unto Christ: and when this Chime hath done (the Cock, which standeth on the top of the Town, on the North-side of the main Work,) having stretched out his Neck, shaken his Comb, and clapped his Wings twice, Crowseth then twice; and this verily he doth so shrill and naturally, as it would make any man to wonder; and if they list, which attend the Clock, they make him to Crow more times. In this Town whereon this Cock standeth, are conveyed all the Instruments of those motions which are in the foresaid described things.

The other places of note in this Lower Alsatia, are 2. Altkirck, in the part of Sungou; 3. Ensisheim, in higher Alsatia; 4. Frisbourg, in Brisgou; 6. Offenbourg, in Mortnais; and 7. Bade, in the Marquisate.

2.1The PALATINATE of the RHINE, which is divided or severed into the Estates of the Palatinate, the Estates of the Princes of the House Palatinate, and the Bishopricks and Imperial Cities of Spires and Wormes. The chief places are Heidelberg, seated in a Plain, but environed on three sides with high Mountains, and the other regards the Rhine, from which it is distant about a mile; it is dignified with the Seat of the Palsgraves, as also with an Ʋniversity. 2. Spires, seated in a Plain about half a mile from the Rhine, a City of more Antiquity than Beauty and Trade, being of note for the Imperial Chamber here continually kept. 3. Wormes, a City also of good Antiquity for the many Imperial Parliaments here formerly held; and 4. Frankendal, a new, fair, strong and beautiful City, about which grow great plenty of Rhenish Wines.

2.2The Electorates and Archbishopricks on the Rhine, are those of MAYENCE, whose chief places are Mayence and Aschaffenbourg; of TREVES, whose chief places are Treves and Coblentz; and of COLOGNE, whose principal places are Cologne and Bonne.

2.3The Estates of the Succession of CLEAVELAND contain the Dutchies of Cleves, of Julier, and of Berge. The Dutchy of Cleves and County of Marke, is in the Marquisate of Brandenburgh,* 2.4 and hath for its chief places Wesel and Hamme, in the County of Marks.

2.5The Dutchy of JƲLIERS hath for its chief places Aken, where the Emperour, after his Election, is invested with the Silver Crown of Germany; this place is of great esteem for its holy Relicks; and 2. Juliers.

The Dutchy of BERGE, or MONTE, hath for its chief places Dusseldrop, Hattingen, and Arusberg.
The ƲNITED PROVINCES.
UNder the name of the Ʋnited Provinces of the LOW COƲNTRIES, or NETHERLANDS, are contained the Dutchy of Guelders, the Earldoms of Holland, Zeland, and Zutphen, and the Lordships of Ʋtrecht, Overyssel, Groningue, and Malines.

2.6The Dutchy of GƲELDERS, or GƲELDERLAND, Westwards of Brabant, is divided into the Quarters of Betuve, Veluve, and Guelders, particularly so called; wherein are the Towns of 1. Nieumegue, once a Free City, seated on the branch of the Rhine called Whael, and made one of the Imperial Seats in these parts by Charles the Great; the other two being Thionvil and Aken. 2. Arnhem, the usual residence of the Dukes of Guelders; 3. Ruremond, so called from the River Ruer and Monde; 4. Harderwick, from a Village made a walled Town by Otho the third Earl; 5. Guelders; 6. Venlo; and 7. Bommel.

2.7The Earldom of HOLLAND hath on the West and North the Seas, from which no part is above three hours distance; in this Earldom are said to be about 400 Villages, and 23 Towns; the chief of which are Amsterdam, which of late, by the addition of the new to the old, is a fair, strong, and beautiful City, being the most rich and powerful of all the Netherlands; famous for its great Trade to the utmost parts of the World, and as infamous for its toleration of all Religions: It is seated on the Tay, which like a large, but calm Sea, floweth on the North-side; and the River Amster, taking its course from the South, through three Lakes entreth the City, passeth through it, and falleth into the Tay. This City may be said to be the greatest Haven Town in the VVorld, where there are commonly to be seen about a 1000 Sail of Ships to ride; and by reason of its vast Trade to Foreign parts, is found to have great plenty of all known Commodities, as being general Traders to most places of Traffick. 2. Rotterdam, famous for giving Birth to Erasmus; 3. Delft, inhabited most by Brewers and their Relations; 4. Harlem, where Printing was first invented, and the first Book that ever was Printed was Tully's Offices; 5: Leyden, dignified with a famous Ʋniversity; the Town consisteth of 41 Islands, the passage from one to the other being by Boats and Bridges, there being about 40 of Wood and 110 of Stone. 6. Dort, where, in Anno 1618. was held a National Synod against the Arminians; 7. Brille; 8. Alemar; 9. Incluse; and 10 the Hague, a Village, but the largest in the VVorld, equalizing many fair Cities, numbring about 2000 Houses, and is very populous; it is adorned with the Palaces of the States General, who have here their Assemblies.

It will not be improper to speak of the power of these States by Sea, which is so great, than in Holland, Zeland, and Friezland, they are able to put forth to Sea about 2500 Sail of Ships for burthen and war. Nor can it be forgot how Margaret,* 2.8 Sister to Floris the Fourth, Earl of Holland, had at one Birth (being 42 years of Age) 365 Children, which were all Christned in two Basons in the Church of Lasdunen, by Guido Bishop of Ʋtrecht, who named the Males all Johns, and the Females Elizabeths; and the Basons are yet to be seen in the said Church.
The Earldom of ZELAND, quasi, Sea and Land,* 2.9 consisting of seven Islands, the remainder of fifteen, which the Seas are said to have swallowed up, in which were abundance of good Towns and Villages. The seven Isles yet remaing are 1. Walcheren, whose principal Towns are Middlebourg, once enjoying a good Trade, by the residence of the English Merchant-Adventurers; and Flushing, the first Town that the States took from the Spaniards; being now a place of good strength, and held to be the Key of the Netherlands. The second Isle is South Beverland, whose chief Town is Tergowse: The third Schoven, where are Sirexee and Brevers Haven: The fourth Tolen, whose principal place is Tertolen• the other three Islands are North-Beverland, Duveland, and Wolferdike. This Country is destitute of Fresh-water and Wood, but in recompence is very fertil in Grains.

2.10The Earldom of ZƲTPHEN, whose chief places are Zutphen, seated on the Yssel, a place of great strength.

2.11The Barony of ƲTRECHT, North of Holland, hath 70 Villages, and 5 walled Towns; the chief of which are 1. Ʋtrecht, a City commodiously feated for passage by Boats to divers other Towns, which, with the benefit of the common Ferries, one may go in a day from hence to any of the 59 walled Towns, equally distant from it; and to Dinner to any of the 26 Towns, and return at Night. 2. Rhenen, 3. Amsford, 4. Wicket, and 5. Montfort.

2.12The Barony of OVERYSSEL, bounded on the East with Wesphalia; its chief places are Deventer, and Swoll, in the quarter of Saland: Oldenzee, in the quarter of Tuente; and Goevorden, in the quarter of Drente.

2.13The Barony of WEST-FRIEZLAND is bounded on the VVest and North with the Sea, is said to number 340 Villages and 10 Towns, the chief of which are 1. Louvarden, where there is held the Common Council for the Province; 2. Harlingen, a Maritim Town; 3. Franicker, of late made a University; and 4. Dockum.

2.14The Barony of GRONINGƲE is a Town in West-Friezland, having under its Jurisdiction 145 Villages, of which the chief are Groningue, Old Haven, and Keykerke.

Under the name of Germany beyond the Rbine, we comprehend Franconia, Hessia, and Westphalia.

2.15The Province of FRANCONIA is divided into three parts, viz. into Ecclesiasticks or Bishopricks, Laicks and Imperial Cities: the Bishopricks are those of Writzberg, Bamberg, and Mergetheim, Cites of good account; the Laicks are the Marquisates of Cullembach and Onspach, and the Counties of Holas, whose chief place is Weickersheim; and Wertheim, whose chief place bears the same name: and the Imperial Cities are 1. Nuremberg, seated in a barren Soil; yet by reason of the Industry of its Inhabitants is a place of good Riches, and well frequented by Merchants for their Wares, known by the name of Nuremberg-Wares. 2. Francfort, seated on the Moene, which severeth it into two parts, but joyned together by a fair Bridge. It is encompassed with a strong double Wall; it is a Free City of the Empire, and famous for the two Fairs or Marts for Books here annually held; the one in Lent, and the other in September: and 3. Schweinfurt.

2.16The Lantgravedom of HASSIA, Eastwards of Saxony; its chief places are 1. Cassel, a City seated in a fertil Soil, yet of no great beauty; 2. Marpurg, an Ʋniversity, and the Seat of the Second House of the Lantgraves; and 3. Dormestad, the Seat and Inheritance of the youngest House of the Lantgraves.

To this Province doth belong the Country of WALDECK, whose Earls are subject to the Lantgraves; its chief place is Gorbach. Likewise to this Province belongeth WETTERAVIA, whose chief places are Nassau, Solins, Han•u, and Isenbourg.

2.17The Province of WESTPHALIA is divided into three parts, to wit, Ecclesiasticks, Counties, and Imperial Cities. This Province was the ancient habitation of the Saxons; the Soil is very fertil, wonderfully stored with Acorns, which makes their Swines-flesh excellent, and so much esteemed. The chief places in the Ecclesiasticks are those of Paderborne, Minde, and Arensberg; also the Bishopricks of Collen, Munster, and Triers. The Bishoprick of COLLEN taketh up a great part of Westphalia,* 2.18 and hath for its chief place Collen, a City well stored with Schools for the education of Youth; and here (according to Report) were interr'd the Bodies of the three Wise-men which came from the East to worship our Saviour, vulgarly called the three Kings of Collen. The Bishoprick of MƲNSTER hath its chief place so called, seated on the River Ems, where there is a Monastery so called, built by Charles the Great; 2. Warendrop, and 3. Herwerden. The Bishoprick of TRIERS hath for its chief places 1. Triers, an ancient City, seated on the Moselle; 2. Bopport, seated on the said River, and 3. Engers.

2.19The Counties belonging to the Province of Westphalia, are 1. EMBDEN, whose chief place is Aurick; 2. OLDENBOƲRG, whose chief place is so called; 3. HOYE, which hath for its chief place Nienbourg; 4. LIPPE, whose chief place is Lipstad; 5. RAVENSBERG, whose chief place is Herword; and 6. BENTHEM, whose chief place bears the fame name.

And lastly, * 2.20 the Imperial Cities are those of Embden, seated low, and therefore no good VVinter City; but in the Summer is very pleasant: and Zoest, of some account.
We have already subdivided Germany about the Danube; it parts, as they are set down in the Geographical Table of Germany about the Danube, are as followeth.

2.21The Province of SOVABIA is divided into several parts and Bishopricks, viz. the Bishoprick of AƲSBOƲRG, whose chief places are Dillengen and Fuessen. The Bishoprick of CONSTANCE, whose chief place is Mersbourg. The Bishoprick of COIRE, whose chief place is Marsoila. The Dutchy of WIRTENBERG, whose chief places are Stutgard, dignified with the Seat and residence of the Duke; and Tubingue, of note for being a University, both Imperial Cities. The Marquisate of BƲRGAƲ, which hath for its chief place Guntzbourg. Part of the Marquisate of BADENDƲRLACK hath for its principal place Baden, seated on the Rhine, and honoured with the residence of the Marquess for the Winter Season, as Milberg is for the Summer. The County of FƲRSTENBERG hath for its chief place Meskirch. The County of HOHENBERG, whose chief place is Ehingen. The County of RHINFELD, hath for its chief places Rhinfelden and Lauffenbourg. The Barony of WALDBOƲRG, whose chief place bears the fame name. The Marquisate of ANSPACH, whose chief place bears the fame name. The Bishoprick of WEIRTSBERG, whose chief place bears fame name. The Bishoprick of MENTZ, whose chief place is so called, seated on the Moene; this Bishop is the chief Elector of Germany. The Bishoprick of BAMBERG hath for its chief places Bamberg, seated on the Moene; and Fochiam, where (as 'tis said) Pontius Pilate was born.

Besides these Parts or Countries there are several IMPERIAL CITIES,* 2.22 as they lye on this side, and beyond the Rhine; as 1. Ausbourg, seated on the Leith, in a fruitful Plain for Corn and Pastures, Northwards of the Alpes, from which it is not far distant; it is a Free City of the Empire, governed by a Senate of Citizens, and is a place of beauty and good strength. 2. Constance, 3. Ʋberlingue, with twelve others, as are mentioned in the Geographical Table of Germany, about the Danube.

2.23The Province of SWITZERLAND, the SWISSES, or HELVETIA, South of Italy and Savoy, is divided into 13 Cantons; and Confederates with them are 12 or 13 Allies, and 20 or 25 Subjects; all which, with the names of the several Cantons, &c. are set down in the Geographical Table of Switzerland. The whole Country is in length 240 miles, and about 180 in breadth; it is exceeding populous, and the Men being good Souldiers and addicting themselves to the Wars, serve under the Colours of any Prince that hireth them. This Country is said to lie the highest of any in Europe, as sending forth four Rivers, which run through its quarters, viz. the Rhine, Danube, the Po, and the Roanus. But to proceed to its chief places in the Cantons, and then with those Confederate with them; and 1. Basle, seated on the Rhine, which separates it into the greater and lesser Basle, once an Imperial City, but now joyned to the Cantons; it is of note for its University, for the notable Council here held, and for the Sepulchers of Erasmus, Hottoman, Clareanus, and Pontanus. 2. Zurich, seated on the Lake Zurisca, which separates it into two parts, but joyned together with three fair Bridges, that in the midst serving for a Meeting-place for Merchants. 3. Lucerne, seated on the banks of a great Lake so called; 4. Steine; 5. Berne, 6. Soleurne, 7. Fribourg, and 8. Schafshouse.

2.24Amongst the Confederates with the Switzers, the chief are the Commonwealth of GENEVA, whose Territories (though not above eight miles in circuit, and and the City not above two miles in circuit) is said to contain about 16 or 17000 Souls; it is seated on the Lake Lemanus, through which the River Rhosne takes its course, which divides the City in two parts; it is a fair City, well fortified, and wholly in the possession of the Protestants, and since the Reformation is become a flourishing University. The Government of this Estate is by a Common-Council, consisting of 200, the four chief amongst them are called Syndiques. The Magistrates of this City allow of all Civil Recreations on Sundays; to their Ministers they allow no Tithes, but give them yearly Stipends.

2.25The GRISSONS hath for its chief place Coire: also SANGAL; and the Territory of VALLAIS, or Valesia, seated wholly amongst the Alpes; a Country of no great bigness, consisting in craggy Rocks and impassible Hills, yet intermixed with delightful and rich Vallies. Its chief places are Sittin, or Sion, the only walled Town in the Country, and is a place of great strength, as well by Nature as Art, being seated on a high and steep Hill, 2. Martinach, of note for its Antiquity; and 3. Augaunum, or St. Maurice, esteemed the Key of the Country, especially in the Winter, the Ice stopping all other entrances; here being a Bridge over the Rhine for that purpose, which is strongly built, and as well fortified and guarded for fear of a Surprizal. Besides these several other Places, Bishopricks and Cities, which are their Allies and Subjects, which I have observed in the Geographical Table of Switzerland.

2.26The Province of BAVARIA is divided into the Dukedom of Tirol, the Dutchy of Bavaria, and the Palatinate of Bavaria.

The Estates of the Dukedom of TIROL is about 70 miles in length, and as much in breadth; it hath for its chief places 1. Inspruck, seated on the Oenus. 2. Trent, a Bishoprick, seated on the River Adesis, famous for the General Council there held by Pope Paul the Third, against the Doctrines of Luther and Calvin, which continued off and on for the space of 18 years. 3. Tirol, and 4. Feldkirch. The Soil of this Country is very fertil, and in many places hath store of Silver-Mines, which are found profitable to the Arch-Dukes.

2.27The Dutchy of BAVARIA hath for its chief places, 1. Munick, seated on the Aser, dignified with the residence of the Duke. 2. Saltzbourg, seated on the River Saltzech, a City honoured with a Bishoprick; and here lieth interr'd the Body of Paracelsus. 3. Passau, famous for the often meeting here of the German Princes. 4. Ratisbone, seated on the Danow, of note for the interview here made between the Emperour Charles the Fifth, and Maurice Duke of Saxony. 5. Frisingue, seated on the ascent of a Hill, and not far from the River Mosacus; and 6. Ingulstad, seated on the Danube, and dignified with an University.

2.28The Palatinate of BAVARIA hath for its chief places 1. Amberg, seated amongst Silver-Mines. 2. Newbourg, usually the portion of some of the younger Palatines. 3. Castel, where the Palatinates of the Rhine, when they sojourn in this Country, use to keep their Court. 4. Sultzbach, 5. Burglenfelt, 6. Aichstet, and 7. Pfreimt.

2.29The Arch-Dukedom of AƲSTRIA is seated on both sides of the Danube, and hath united to it, as Horeditary possessions of that House, the Provinces or Dukedoms of Stirie, Carinthie, Carniole; the County of Cilley, and the Marquisate of Windischmarch.

The particular Dukedom or Province of AƲSTRIA is separate from Hungaria on the East by the Leite;* 2.30 its chief places are 1. Vienna, seated on the Danube, at present the Seat of the German Emperours, as being the Metropolitan, fairest, and most beautiful City in all Germany, being adorned with many magnificent Temples and stately Monasteries; but above all, with a most sumptuous and Princely Palace, where the Emperour keeps his Court. It is esteemed the Bulwark of the Country against the Turks, being of note for the repulse they gave the Turks in Anno 1526, when besieged by about 200000, under the conduct of Solyman the Magnificent, and were thence repulsed with the loss of about 80000 Men. 2. Ems, so called from the River on which it is seated; 3. Wells; 4. Crems, seated on the Danube; 5. Home, 6. Newstat, and 7. Bade.

2.31The Dukedom of STIRIE is contiguous to Austria on the South; hath for its chief places Grecz, Pruck, and Pettau.

2.32The Dukedom of CARINTHIE is South of the Alpes, and hath for its chief places 1. St. Veit, the Metropolitan City of this Country; 2. Lavemunde, and 3. Grucz.

The Dukedom of CARNIOLE, adjoyning on Italy Westwards, hath for its chief places Laubuch, Gorice, Gradisque, and Czirknitz.
The Country of CILLEY, whose chief place bears the same name.
The Marquisate of WINDISCHMARCH, which hath for its chief places, Metling, and Radolfswred.
Germany about the Elbe and Oder, contains Bohemia, and the Higher and Lower Saxony: To Bohemia are incorporated the Dukedom of Silesia, and the Marquisates of Moravia and Lusatia.
BOHEMIA.

2.33THe Kingdom of BOHEMIA is encompassed with the Hercynian Forests, which for a long time was a fence against the Romans; it hath on the East, Moravia and Silesia; on the South, Austria; on the West, Bavaria; and on the North, Luisatia. The whole Kingdom contains 550 miles in circuit; in which are said to be 780 Cities, walled Towns, and Castles, and about 32000 Villages. Its Inhabitants are much addicted to Drunkenness and Gluttony; but the Nobility and Gentry (for the most part) are of another temper. The Soil of the Kingdom is extreamly fertil, and enriched with Mines of all sorts of Metal, except Gold. It is severed into 15 Provinces, and hath for its chief places, 1. Prague, the Metropolis of the whole Kingdom, and seated in the midst, and on the River Mulda. This City consisteth of four several Towns, and every one of them have their peculiar Magistrates, Laws, and Customs; to wit, the Old Prague, beautified with a famous Senate-house, a large Market-house, and several fair Structures: then the New Prague, separate from the Old by a deep and broad Ditch; also the little Town, so called, which is divided from the Old Prague by the Mulda, to which it is joyned by a fair Bridge. In this City is the Hill Rachine, on the sides of which are many beautiful Houses inhabited by the Nobility; and on the summit thereof is a magnificent Palace, and is the residence of the Bohemian Kings, and later Emperours: the fourth and last part is the Town of the Jews, as by them inhabited, where they have five Synagogues, and live according to their own Laws. 2. Coln, 3. Jaromirz, 4. Churdin, 5. Hora, 6. Tabor, 7. Pisen, 8. Ziatecz, 9. Rakonick, 10. Melnisk, and 11. Nimburg; all places of good account.

The Provinces Incorporate to Bohemia, are the Dutchy of Silesia, the Marquisates of Moravia and Lusasia.

2.34SILESIA is Eastwards of Bohemia, and is severed into two equal parts by the River Oder, which hath here its beginning; it is divided into three Dutchies, fifteen Principalities, and four Baronies, whose names (with their chief places) I have taken notice of in the Geographical Table of Bohemia. Its chief places are 1. Breslaw, so called from a Duke of this Province, who built it: In the year 1341 it was totally burnt, but since the rebuilding is become one of the neatest Towns in this part. 2. Gros-glogaw, 3. Jawer, 4. Lignitz, 5. Breslaw, 6. Breig, 7. Monsterbeg, 8. Neiss, 9. Oppelen, 10. Ratibor, 11. Troppaw, and 12. Wartenberg.

2.35The Marquisate of MORAVIA, West of Bohemia, is esteemed the most fertil Country for Corn in Germany, abounding also in Myrrhe and Frankinsince, not growing on Trees, but out of the ground: It is severed into three parts, viz. Olmutz, Brinn, and Znaim; and hath for its chief places 1. Brinn, dignified with the Seat of the Marquiss. 2. Olmutz, seated on the Morava, from whence the Country takes its name, and is dignified with an Ʋniversity. 3. Iglaw, 4. Znaim, 5. Kremsir, 6. Krumlow, and 7. Polna; all places of good account.

2.36The Marquisate of LƲSASIA, South of Bohemia, is divided into the Higher and Lower Lusasia; a Country, though but little, yet able to Arm 20000 foot. It hath for its chief places, 1. Baudissen, 2. Gorlitz, 3. Sittaw, 4. Soraw, and 5. Guben.

The County of Glatzko, and the Signiory of Egra, belong likewise to the Kingdom of Bohemia.
SAXONY.

2.37THE Lower part of Germany, about the Elbe and Oder, is taken up by Saxony, which is divided into the Higher and Lower; in the higher are the Estates of the Dukes of Saxony, the Estates of the Marquisate of Brandenburg, and the Dutchy of Pomerania. In the Lower Saxony are several Archbishopricks, Bishopricks, Dutchies, and Imperial Cities; which I have taken notice of in the Geographical Table of Germany about the Elbe and the Oder.

2.38The Higher SAXONY for the most part belongs to the Duke and Elector of Saxony: It is bounded on the East with Lusatia and Brandenburgh, on the South with Bavaria and Bohemia, on the West with Hassia and Franconia, and on the North with Lower Saxony and Brandenburgh. It is divided into the Dutchy of Saxony, the Marquisate of Misne, the Dutchy of Voitland, Turinge, with its several parts, and the Principality of Anhalt. The chief places in the Dutchy of Saxony are 1. Wittenberg, seated on a plain and Sandy barren ground, once dignified with the Seats of the Dukes of Saxony, famous for the Sepulchers of Luther and Melancthon; it is dignified with an Ʋniversity, and of this Town there is a common Proverb, That a man shall meet nothing but Schollers, Whores, and Swine, which last is their food: and 2. Worlets, seated on the Albis.

2.39The Province of MISNE hath for its chief places 1. Dresden, seated on the Albis, the residence of the Duke, and Prince Elector of Saxony; it is a place of great strength, having on its Walls and Bulwarks 150 Peeces of Ordnance, being the Dukes Magazin for Arms and Men, where, upon a days warning, he can make ready 30000 Horse and Foot. 2. Dipsick, seated in a fruitful Plain for Corn, a fair Town, graced with large Streets, and beautified with many lofty Buildings of Freestone, and is of some account for its University for the study of Philosophy: and it is observed, that these Philosophers, amongst other Secrets in nature, find Beer so good, that the Duke gains by the Custom thereof, drunk by them and the Inhabitants, who follow their steps, about 20000 l. per annum sterling.

2.40The Dutchy of VOITLAND is of no large extent, and of as little note; its chief places are Altembourg and Zuickaw.

2.41The Province of TƲRINGE, about 120 miles in length and breadth, is divided into several parts, and hath for its chief places 1. Erdford, a fair and large City; 2. Jeve, an University of Physitians; 3. Smalcald, famous for the Lutheran League here made, in Anno 1530, by the German Princes, which in a short time was propogated over all Christendom. 4. Cobourg, 5. Quedelimberg, 6. Salsfeldt, 7. Mulhausen, and 8. Northausen; which two last are Imperial Cities.

The Principality of ANHALT hath for its chief places Dessau and Bernebourg.* 2.42

2.43The Marquisate of BRANDENBOƲRG, East of Poland, is in compass about 520 miles, is separated into the parts of Altmark, Mittle, Mittlemarck, Marche and Newmarck; its chief places are 1. Havelberg, scituate on the River Havel, the Seat of a Bishop. 2. Brandenbourg, which communicates its name to the Country. 3. Berlin, seated on the River Spre, the ordinary residence of the Marquiss. 3. Francfort, seated on the Oder, to distinguish it from the other on the Meine, and in a fertil Soil for Corn and Wine; it is dignified with an Ʋniversity and a great Mart Town, but not comparable to the other Francfort, and 5. Landsberg.

2.44The Province of POMERANIA, South of Brandenbourg, is divided into nine Dutchies, whose names are set down in the Geographical Table. Its chief places are 1. Stettin, the residence of the Prince, which from a poor Fisher Town is now become the chief of the Country. 2. Walgast, once a famous Mart Town, where the Russians, Vandals, Danes, and Saxons, had their particular Streets of abode for Trade; but now it is lost, and from thence removed to Lubeck. 3. Gripsvald, an University; 4. Straelsond, 5. Bergen, 6. Stargart, 7. Colberg, 8. Stolpe, and 9. Lowenbourg. That part of the Country about Stettin belong to the Swede, and that towards Colberg to the Marquisate of Brandenbourg.

2.45The Lower SAXONY is divided into the Archbishopricks, Bishopricks, divers Dutchies, with some Imperial Cities, the names of all which are set down in the Geographical Table of Saxony. In this Lower Saxony are divers good Towns and Cities, the chief of which are 1. Magdebourg, a City which gives name to its Territory. 2. Breme, which also gives name to its Territory or Archbishoprick, is one of the Hans-Towns, so called from the freedom of Traffick here used; it is commodiously seated on the Visurge, which runneth through the City, and at five miles distance falleth into the Sea. 3. Ferden; 4. Hiddelshein, 5. Halberstat; which three last are all Cities which give name to their Territories or Bishopricks. The several Dutchies are HOLSTEIN, or HOLSATIA, where are the Cities of Kyell, Segelberg, and Gluckstad.

2.46The Dutchy of LƲNEBOƲRG hath for its chief places 1. Lunebourg, said to be so called from the Moon, which the ancient Inhabitants worshipped; it is an Imperial and Free City, of good strength, being well fortified with thick Mud-walls and deep Ditches, and its Buildings are fair; a place well known for its salt ••untain here found, over which is built a spacious House containing 52 Rooms, in every one of which are placed eight Chaldrons of Lead, in each of which are boiled a Tun of Salt every day; the profit of which is divided into three parts, one to the Duke, another to the City, and the other to the Monastery and some adjoyning Earldoms: And 2. Celle, the Seat of the Duke of Lunebourg.

The Dutchy of BRƲNSWICK hath for its chief places 1. Brunswick, seated in a fertil Soil for Corn, a free Imperial City, strongly fenced about with Walls, besides the River of Ancor, which encompasseth it; this place is famous for its Mum, which the Inhabitants are so much addicted unto, that they commonly spend the Forenoons about their Affairs, and the Afternoons in good Fellowship. 2. Wolfenbutten, the Seat of the Dukes of Brunswick.

The Dutchy of GRƲBENHAGEN, whose chief place is Limbeck.
The Dutchy of GOTTINGEN, whose chief place is Gottingue.
The Dutchy of LAWENBOƲRG, whose chief places are Lawenbonrg and Hadler.
The Dutchy of MECKLENBOƲRG, West of Pomerania, hath for its chief places 1. Wismar, so named from Wisamarus, a King of the Vandals, Father of Rhadaguse, who, with Alarick the Goth, sacked Rome. 2. Rostock, an University; and 3. Scierin.
Amongst the Imperial Free Cities, or Hans-Towns, which are about 72, most of which are seated on the Sea-shoar, or navigable Rivers, enjoying large Immunities, and able to put to Sea about 100 Sail of Ships; these following are of most note, 1. Lubeck, seated on the Trane, which on the North-side divides Germany from Denmark, and on a spacious Hill, on the top whereof is a beautiful Church, from whence lead Streets to all the Gates of the City, besides which there are nine other Churches; it is encompassed with a double Wall, one of Brick, and the other of Earth, and in some parts deep Ditches, where Ships of about 1000 Tuns are brought up to Winter from Tremuren, its Maritim-Port, seated on the Baltick Sea, from which it is about a miles distance. The Buildings of this City are of Brick, and very beautiful, to which they have many pleasant Gardens; and the Inhabitants are to be commended for their civility to Strangers, as also for their strictness in the execution of their Justice. 2. Hambourg, seated on a large and Sandy plain, and on the banks of the Albis, where it divides Germany from Denmark; it is a strong City, encompassed with a deep Ditch, and on the East and Northsides with a double Ditch and Wall, and hath six Gates for entrance, the Haven being shut up with Iron-Chains and strictly guarded: It is adorned with many fair buildings, as the Senate-house, the Exchange, &c. hath nine Churches for Divine Worship, and its private Houses are for the most part neatly built; it is very populous, well Inhabited, and frequented by Merchants, especially by the English, who have here a Factory for Woolen-Cloth. In this City there hath been observed to be 777 Brewers, 40 Bakers, one Lawyer, and one Physitian; the reason of this great disproportion (as one wittily observed) was, that a Cup of Nimis is the best Vomiting potion, and their Controversies were sooner composed over a Pot of Drink, than by order of Law. 3. Stoad, commodiously seated for Traffick on the Elve, about five miles distance from Hambourg, once a place of a better Trade than now it is. These Cities are called Free, from their great Prerogatives in coyning Money, and ruling by their own Laws; and Imperial, as knowing no Lord or Protector, but the Emperour, to whom they pay two Thirds of such Contributions as are assessed in the Assemblies.
Germany is a spacious Country, and very populous; the People are of a strong Constitution and good Complexion, are very ingenious and stout, much given to drink, but of a generous disposition: the Poorer sort great Pains-takers, and the Nobles (which are many, for the Title of the Father descends to all their Children) are either good Scholars or stout Souldiers, so that a Son of a Duke is a Duke; a thing which the Italians hold so vain and foolish, that in derision they say, That the Dukes and Earls of Germany, the Dons of Spain, the Nobility of Hungaria, the Bishops of Italy, the Lairds of Scotland, the Monsieurs of France, and the younger Brethren of England, make a poor Company.
There are so many inferiour, (yet free) Princes in this Country, that in a days Journey a Traveller may meet with many Laws, and as many sorts of Coin, every Prince making use of his own Laws and Coins, whose Laws the Emperours are sworn to keep; which made one say, that the Emperour is King of Kings, the King of Spain King of Men, and the King of France King of Asses, as bearing his heavy Taxes.

2.48The Country is generally fertil and temperate, being scituate under the Temperate Zone. Here are many Mines of Silver and other Inferiour Mettals; it hath store of Corn and Wine, which they transport to forreign Countries, as likewise Linnen, Laces, Woollen, and divers Manufactures, also Quicksilver, Alom, Arms of all sorts, and other Iron-works; and its Ponds, Lakes, and Rivers are well stored with Fish.

2.49The chief Rivers of Germany are, the Rhine, the Weser, the Elbe, and the Oder; for the Danube having but a small course in this Country, shall be elsewhere spoken of.

2.50That part which we call BELGIƲM, or the Low Countries, is of a large extent, seated in the North Temperate Zone, under the 8 and 9th Climates, the longest day being 17 hours; the Air by reason of the industry of the Inhabitants in draining the Marishes, and turning the standing-Waters into running-Streams, is now very healthful, as being purged from those gross Vapours which did thence arise: the Country lieth exceeding low, and therefore subject to Inundations. The Commodities that these Countries yield, are, Linnens, Yarn, Thread, Sayes, Silks, Velvets, Tapestries, Pictures, Prints, Blades, Sope, Butter, Cheese, Fish, Pots, Bottles, Ropes, Cables, Armour, several Manufactures, &c. besides the Commodities of India, Persia, China, Turkey, and other parts, which are here had in great plenty, by reason of the vast Trade they drive in all parts.

1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.

Germany has very fertile Provinces, and a great number of fine Cities. The Corn, Fruits, Salt, and other Commodities, afford a very considerable Revenue. It is now an Elective Empire, wherein is a vast number of Sovereign States, of which the Emperour is the chief. The Laws of this Empire do allow of three Religions, the Roman Catholick, the Lutheran and Evangelical, and the Calvinist or Reformed. Nevertheless, there be several other Sects, tho' the Germans do almost all follow the belief of their Princes.
Germany has this advantage, that it is in the midst of Europe, and serves for the Seat of the Empire: the Emperor governs it by the means of Diets, which are much like Parliaments. The principal Articles of the Government are contained in the Golden Bull, which treats of the Election of the King of the Romans, of the Duty of Electors, of their Priviledges, of the Authority of the Emperor, of the means of preserving the Repose and Peace in the Empire. This Bull is a small Book, whose Original, written in Parchment, contains four and twenty Leaves, and thirty Chapters. It has a great round Seal of pure Gold, fasten'd to strings of yellow and red Silk. It has on the one side the Portrait of Charles the Fourth, on the other a Castle with two Towers, with these Words, Aurea Roma. The Election of the Emperor ought to be made at Francfort upon the Mein, but this was not observed in the late Elections. Besides the Assemblies which concern the Affairs of the Empire in general, there be three sorts of 'em, those of the Electors for the chusing of the Emperor; those of the Deputies, whereto the Emperor sends his Commissioner; those of the Circles, like to the Assemblies of the States of our great Provinces. There be ten Circles in the Empire, those of Austria, of Bavaria, of Suabia, of Alsatia, or of the High Rhine, the Electoral, or of the Low Rhine, of Westphalia, of High Saxony, of Low Saxony, of Franconia, of Burgundy; this last is no longer Convened. Each Circle has an Ecclesiastick and a Secular Director, who preside together in the Assemblies: two or three Circles may assemble, when one of 'em is attacked from abroad, or disturbed with intestine troubles.
The Empire is much the same with that of the Romans, tho' it does not comprehend so great an extent of Land: the Princes or States, whereof it is composed, are of five forts, the Emperor, now of the House of Austria, the Electors, the Ecclesiastick Princes, the Secular Princes, and the Free Towns. In the General Dyets, there be three Bodies, that of the Electors, that of the Princes, that of the Imperial Cities. There are reckoned to be above three hundred Sovereignties in Germany, who acknowledge the Emperor no farther than homage, and in Resort.
The Dominions of the House of Austria be of three sorts, those of Austria which are Hereditary to it; those of Bohemia, where it has the same Right; those of Hungary, which it has by Election. The Emperor does commonly obtain either his Son, or his Brother, or his nearest Relation, to be chosen King of Hungary in his Life-time; afterwards has him Crowned King of Bohemia; and, if he finds any disposition, has him Elected King of the Romans, that is to say, his perpetual Vicar and presumptive Successor to the Empire. Without the Revenue of his Hereditary Countries, the Emperor would not have wherewith to maintain a very considerable Train; he does not possess any Land under the Title of Imperial Majesty. His Principal Rights are the Erection and Investiture of Fiefs, the granting of Priviledges, the Right of Legitimation: He may make Laws, give Safe-Guards, establish Posts, make Parliaments, compose Universities, erect Burroughs into Cities, create Offices, puts Towns into the Ban of the Empire: In short, he may make Kings, Dukes, Marquesses, and has the Superiority over all the Princes of the Empire, who, upon this account, pay him a great respect.
The Electors are to the number of eight, the Arch-Bishop of Mayence, the Arch-Bishop of Treves, the Arch-Bishop of Cologne, the King of Bohemia, the Duke of Bavaria, the Duke of Saxony, the Marquess of Brandenbourg, the Prince Palatine. These Electors Chuse and Crown the Emperor; the Pope confirms this Election and Coronation. Four Voices are sufficient to raise any one to the Imperial Dignity, and at present the King of Bohemia has only his Session in the Election. The Secular Electors may nominate themselves: The Lands or their Electorates cannot be dismembred: In the House of Saxony, the Electorate is for the eldest alone, who shares the other Seigniories with his Brothers. The Elector of Brandenboug is the most Potent, and possesses the most Land of all those Princes; his States are above two hundred German Leagues in length, for the most part separated from one another, yet a Courier may go from one end to another, and always lye upon this Electors Land.
The Ecclesiastick Princes are of several sorts, the Arch-Bishop of Salzbourg, the Grand Master of the Teutonick Order, several Bishops and other great Prelates; Abbots, Abbesses, who have no Voice but in Body. These Princes are almost all absolute over the Temporality of their Benefices, and Christendom has no Prelates so Potent as they are. The Election of most of their Dignities belongs to the Chapters, without the Popes or Emperors being to concern themselves therein. As Germany is divided for Religion, there remain some Lutheran Bishops, who have the Title of Bishops, until that they have Contracted Marriage; and when they are Married, they are called Administrators.
Among the secular Princes, are the Arch-Duke of Austria, the Princes of the Electoral Houses, some Dukes, Marquesses and Land-Graves. There be also Counts and Barons, who differ little but in Name, and who have immediate Dependency on the Empire. They have Session in Body, which has four Voices in the States of the Empire; they have each their own in their particular Assemblies; several amongst them Coin Monies. Nobles there be in Suevia or Schwaben in Franconia, in the Land of the Rhine, who are absolute over their Lands, as the greatest Lords of the Empire are over theirs. Several Principalities of Germany are often possess'd by one sole Prince; and sometimes one Principality alone belongs there to several. The youngest Brothers have almost the same Titles with the eldest.
The Free Towns, which are as many small Republicks, be principally of two sorts, Imperial and Anseatick. The Imperial have the Eagle of the Empire in their Arms, either whole or divided; have Right to send to the Diet, where their Body has two Voices, they are considered upon the Bank of Suevia and upon the Bank of the Rhine: Thus are they divided, by reason of the Benches where the Deputies of those Cities have their Seats: The Deputy of the City of Cologne holds the first Rank of the Bench of the Rhine, that of Ratisbon has the first place of that of Suevia. Some have Noble Families, by which they are Governed, others have a Popular Government.
The Hans-Towns are Confederated together for the mutually succouring one another, upon occasion, against their Enemies, for maintaining the Liberty of the Commerce, for the not being burthened with any Impositions by Foreign Princes; the consideration of this League is now of little use to several of those Towns, each of them endeavouring to do its own business by it self. They were reckoned to be sixty six. Lubeck, Cologne, Brunswick, Dantzick are the Capitals of them, with as many Colledges. Lubeck may Convene all the rest, with the advice of five of those Towns, which are nearest it.
The most renowned Rivers of Germany, are the Rhine, the Danube, the Elbe, the Oder, the Weser: The Rhine, the greatest of Rivers which goes towards the Ocean, has its Source in Suisserland, and its end in Holland, where it loses its Name in the Sand: It is so broad below Strasbourg, that Bridges cannot be made over it. There is not one in the World, that Waters so many Sovereign States. The finest Cities, by which it passes, are on this side its Bed or Chanel, most of 'em built by the Romans, who made it the bound of their Empire. It formerly separated Gaul from Germany; during the first Race of the French Kings, it passed through some part of their Territories. The Danube, which begins in Suevia, has a Course of above seven hundred Leagues.
The most easie Division of Germany is, that which has made it into two parts, the one High, and the other Low, according to the Course of the Rhine, of the Elbe, and of the Oder. Each of those parts has several Provinces: The High has four towards the West, Alsatia, the Palatinate of the Rhine, Franconia, Suevia: And four great States towards the East, Tirol, Bavaria, which is of two sorts, Dutchy and Palatinate; Bohemia, which also comprehends Silesia with Moravia; and Austria, which has other Herereditary Lands, namely, Carinthia, Carniola and Stiria. Low-Germany has as many parts as the High, four towards the West, the Electoral Arch-Bishopricks, the Succession of Cleves and of Juliers, Westphalia and Hesse: Four towards the East, known under the Name of Saxony, Saxony Electoral, which comprehends Turingia, Misnia, Lusacia, High-Saxony upon the Elbe; Saxony has other Princes, wherein we reckon Brunswick, Low-Saxony upon the Elbe, Meckelbourg; Brandenbourg and Pomerania, which for the most part belongs to the Crown of Sueden, with some other Seigniories.
Alsatia is indeed small, but the most fertile of all Germany in Corn and in Wines; Strasbourg there is rich, strong, and very populous by reason of its Commerce: Its Arcenal, the Tower, and the Clock of the Church, deserves to be seen by those who Travel. Heidelberg is the Capital of the Palatinate of the Rhine: Its fine Library was Transported to Rome, after that the Town had been taken in the Year 1622. by Tilly the Emperors General. Franconia was the abode of the ancient French, who called it Eastern France, after that they had carried their Name and setled their abode in Gaul. Francfort, upon the Mein, is known for its Fairs, and for the Elections of Emperors which have been made in that Town. Nuremberg has fine Manufactures, and furnishes Europe with abundance of Gew-gaws. Suevia has so many Sovereignties, that there's not a Country that has so great a number; its two best Cities are Augsbourg and Ʋlm: The first Celebrated by the Confession of the Faith of the Protestants in the Year 1530. by the Enemies it has raised against the King of Spain, and by its Goldsmiths Work: Its Town-House is one of the finest Fabricks of Germany: The Catholicks and Lutherans are received Magistrates indifferently in this Place. Ʋlm is one of the best fortified, and the richest of the Empire in Land; the Danube begins to carry Boats there. The Dutchy of Bavaria is not to be dismembred as are some other States; the youngest Brothers there do ever reverence the eldest: Munich, the Residence of the Elector, is a fine Town, accompanied with a stately Castle, wherein there is a Library full of curious Manuscripts. Ratisbon, renowned for its Diets, has five Principalities of the Empire, the Bishoprick, the City, three Abbies, with the finest Bridges in Germany. Bohemia is esteemed one of the Highest Countries in Europe, by reason there enters no Rivers therein, and several go out from thence. It has its particular States, its Customs and its Tongue, different from those of the Neighbourhood, tho' its King be one of the Electors of the Empire. The Inheritance of this Custom has been confirmed to the House of Austria by the Peace of Munster. Prague, the Capital, is composed of three Cities, and so populous, that under the Emperor Charles the Fourth, there are said to have gone from thence above forty thousand Foreign Scholars, for that their Priviledges were retrenched: The great Battel in the Year 1620. which was fought near its Walls, decided, in less than an Hours time, the Quarrels of the Kingdom, in favour of the Emperor Ferdinand the Second, against Frederick Elector Palatine. Austria, the only Arch-Dutchy in the World, is not subject to the Justice of the Empire, and does not Contribute to its necessity. The Piety of that Family, and the Situation of its great Dominions near those of the Infidels, have made the Germans continue the Empire in that Family for some time past. Vienna, the Residence of the Empire, is the best Fortified of Germany: In the Year 1529. it sustained generously twenty Assaults, against the Great Turk Soliman the Second, who Besieged it in vain with three hundred Thousand Men.
Cologne, an Imperial City, one of the four Hans-Towns, is called the Rome of Germany, by reason of its bigness, and the beauty of its Benefices: The Papists call it Holy, because it has in keeping several Bodies of their Saints, has three hundred sixty five Churches, and that amongst the free Cities, it alone is exemped from Heresie. Westphalia furnishes Gammons and Hams. Munster is the place where the General-Peace of the Empire was concluded, in the Year 1648. It was known in the Year 1535. for the Rebellion of the Anabaptists, whose pretended King John of Leyden was there punished according to his merit. In the Year 1661. its Bishop caused a Cittadel to be there made, for the maintaining his Authority against the pretensions of the Citizens. Hosse is the Province where hitherto most care has been taken to instruct the Inhabitants in the Trade of War. The Name of Saxony was more famous when its People Conquered the better part of England. The House of Saxony is one of the most ancient of Europe. Erfort, in Turingia, is esteemed the greatest City of Germany. Dresden, the Residence of the Elector of Saxony, has sine Fortifications, and an Arcenal well provided. Low-Saxony has several good Cities, Brunswick, Lubeck, Hambourg, Vismar, Bremen. Hambourg is spacious, rich, strong, besides its being able to put fifteen thousand Citizens in Arms: Its Situation facilitates to it the Commerce of the Ocean and of the Baltick-Sea. Brandenbourg is the only Marquisate of all the Empire, with that of Baden: Berlin is there the Residence of the Elector. Stetin is the most considerable of Pomerania possessed by the Crown of Sueden.

1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.

GERMANY
THE Bounds of Germany, as set out by Ptolomy and other ancient Writers, were much different from what they are at present; for, according to their Account, it extended Northward as far as the Ocean, whereby Denmark, Norway and Sweden were included; and Southward it was bounded by the Danube, so that Austria, Bavaria, Stiria, Carinthia, Carinola, &c. now reckon'd part of it, were then excluded; as were also Alsace, part of the Palatinate and the Spiritual Electorates, the Rhine being by them reckon'd the Western Bounds; but these last, together with Lorrain and the neighbouring Countries, were afterwards possessed by Germans; and being Conquer'd by the Romans, were by them nam'd Germania prima & secunda.
Germany, as it is at present bounded by the Low Countries on the West; Poland and Hungary on the East; Denmark and the Baltick Sea on the North; and Swisserland, with the Dominions of the State of Venice, on the South; is situated between the 45 D. 12 M. and 54 D. 50 M. of Latitude, and 25 D. and 29 D. 30 M. of Longitude, in form almost square; extending from North to South (that is to say, from Straelsund in Pomerania, to the Frontiers of Carniola and Istria) 150 German leagues, which is 600 English miles; and in breadth from the Town of Spa in the West, to the Confines of Poland in the East, about 150 English miles.
The SOIL is exceeding fruitful, especially on the Banks of the Rhine and the Danube, where also the AIR is very Temperate; but in the Northern part it is cold, and the Ground less fruitful. Besides great plenty of Corn, vast quantities of rich Wine is produc'd here and exported to Foreign Nations. The Earth also affords Mines of divers sorts of Mettals and Minerals, as Iron, Copper, Tin, Lead, and even Silver in some parts: Alom, Quick-silver, Salt, &c.
The chief RIVERS, are, 1. The Danube, call'd by the Natives Thonaw, which rises in Schwaben near a Village call'd Tone Eschingen, whence tending Eastward, it receives two small Rivulets, and soon after divides and encircles the City Ʋlm, where it begins to be Navigable, and having receiv'd the Iler, Guntz, Minael and Wernitz, passes on through Bavaria, receiving the Lech at Lechmund, the Altmul at Kelhaim, the Nab, Regen, Isser and Inn, watering by the way the Cities Newburg, Ingolstadt, Ratisbon and Stranbingen; thence passes through Austria, where, having water'd Lintz, it is encreas'd by the Rivers Fraun, Ens, and others of smaller note, and then runs by the Walls of Vienna, receiving the small River Wien, (whence that City hath its name) and afterwards the Moraw, pursuing its course still Eastward into Hungary, where it passes by Presburg and Gran; then, tending Southward, it passes by Buda and Belgrade, being exceedingly encreased by the Drave, which it receives at Esseck, and the Save at Belgrade; after which it loses its name and is call'd Ister, and running Eastward between Servia and Walachia, as also between Moldavia and Bulgaria, falls at last into the Black or Euxine Sea in six Mouths, which part Bulgaria from Bsserabia, after having run above eleven hundred miles an end. It is very broad, runs with a very rapid Current, and hath three great Cataracts, which are 1. The Saw-Russel, or Swine's Snout, near Lintz, so call'd from a pointed Rock hanging over, which hath under it a dangerous Whirlpool 2. Der Strudel near Greinon in Austria, where the falling of the Water makes a horrid noise. And, 3. Der Wurbel, another very dangerous Whirl-pool. 2. The Rhine rises in two Springs in the Alps, which falling into Swisserland, unite near the City Cur or Coir, and soon after dilates it self into into a large Lake, call'd the Boden Sea, or Lake of Constance; whence passing West-ward to Basil, it turns up to the North, and runs between Schwaben and Alsace into the Palatinate, receiving the Neckar at Manheim, and the Maine at Mentz; then runs to Coblentz, where it receives the Moselle; afterwards waters Cologn, and passes on through the Dutchy of Cleeve, receiving the Roer and the Lippe, and other smaller Rivers by the way, and passes into the Netherlands at Schenckenschans. Of its Course afterward we have already given an account. It is very broad, even two English miles (as some say, at Schenckenschans, and its course very swift, but the Navigation of it is interrupted by nine Cataracts; the most remarkable whereof are, two in Swisserland, one near Schafhuysen (where the whole River falls 75 foot) and the other near Lauffenburg. 3. The Elbe rises out of the Mountains near Hirchsburg in Silesia, upon the Confines of Bohemia, in eleven several Springs, which being united, pass Northward between Misnia and Lusatia into Saxony, receiving by the way, the Warlitz, Orlitz, Moldau and Aegra, passes by Magdeburg, Lawenburg and Hamburg, and a little below Gluckstadt divides into two Branches, which falls into the German Ocean; it is very large and deep at Hamburg, which is above 70 miles from the Sea; Ships of four or 500 Tun ride at Anchor in it. 3. The Oder springs in Moravia, and after a Current of 300 English miles, through Brandenburg and Pomerania, falls into the Baltick Sea. 4. The Weser rises in the Mountains of Thuringen, runs through Hessen and Westphalia, and empties it self into the Ocean below Bremen.
Other Rivers of smaller note the Reader will discover the Course of, in the following Description of the Country; as also an account of the Mineral Waters, Baths, Mines, Mountains, Forests, Lakes, &c. found in the several Parts of this great Nation.
Of the Inhabitants of Germany.
Whether Germany was Peopled after the Flood by Ascenas the Grandchild of Japhet, or whether Tuisco, who some say was the Son of that Ascenas, and others the Son of Noah, was the Conductor of the first Colony hither, is uncertain. Cluverius affirms the former, assigning the very year when this Plantation was made, viz. The 136th after the Flood; and Verstegan pleads hard for the latter. However that be, it is certain that Germany was Peopl'd very Early. The ancient Germans had two Deities call'd Teuto or Tuisco, and Maunus his Son, under which Names, by their Songs and Festivals, they honour'd God the Maker of the World, and Adam the Propagator of human Kind. And from the names of the former of these two Deities, had the appellation of the Teutsche Nation, which by the mutation of T for D is now made Duytsche; and the Country Duytschland.
Much Dispute hath risen among the Etymologists concerning the derivation of German and Alman, two other Names of this Nation: The most agree'd one is, That Gar signifying all, they were call'd Gar Man, q. d. all Man, demoting their great Manliness and Valour. All signifies the same, and therefore Alman is but a synonminous Term signifying the same thing with German; though others assign the reason of that denomination to be the many Nations of them, and that it was first given 'em in the year 358. when they muster'd up a great Army from all parts, against the Romans; which being a mixture of many sorts of Men, it was call'd an Army of Almanner: Which word afterwards was us'd by the Italians, Spaniards and French, to signifie the whole Nation of Germans. Again, others say, That the name Almain, belong'd to the People of Schwaben, which they took from Mannus the Son of Tuisco; and that it became not universal, till those Dukes, having obtain'd the Imperial Dignity and k•pt it many years, made the name of the Inhabitants of that Region be extended to the whole Country.
By what we have said, the Reader will judge, That the TEMPER of the Inhabitants was Martial; which indeed they were, so far as to oppose the Romans for 210 years, but cannot however be esteem'd to deserve the Character their Name implies; For though they are generally of large Bodies, with big Bones, much Flesh and strong Sinews; they want Spirit to actuate their large Bulk, and Heat to concoct the Phlegmatick Humour wherewith their Bodies are fill'd, and therefore better at guarding a Post than gaining Ground. 'Tis true, in our days they have notably oppos'd the Turks, fought many Battles, and acquir'd great Honour by the glorious Victories they have obtained over those Infidels. They are generally good natur'd, free from Malice and Subtilty, much addicted to both Drunkenness and Gluttony, but not over-much to Venery. The poorer sort are laborious, sincere and honest. The Nobility are Men of great Honour, and commonly Scholars. All the Sons of a Noble Man inherit their Father's Title, which exceedingly increases the number of the Nobility, and the more because the German Women are generally good Breeders; and by that means the Estates of the Princes are so often divided for the sake of younger Children, that the Principalities and Sovereign Lordships have increased to a vast number. All the Nobility scorn Marriage with a Commoner; wherefore the younger Brothers are often oblig'd to take up Arms, or enter into Orders, whereby they are enabled to keep up the Grandeur of the Family; especially by the latter, because the Ecclesiastical Preferments here are both Numerous and Rich. The Women are of good Complexions, Corpulent, and very Fruitful, as we have said, and more obsequions to their Husbands than our Women, many not sitting at Table with them, and none having the upper Place there.
The GENIUS of the Germans hath appear'd in the Invention and Improvement of many Mechanical Arts, whereof Clock-work especially is owing to them. In this Art they have exceeded all the World in the contrivance of variety of Motions, to shew not only the Course of the Hours and Minutes, but even of the Sun, Moon and Stars; whereof the Clocks at Strasburg, Prague, and many other places all over Germany, are sufficient Instances. The Emperor Charles V. had a Watch in the Jewel of his Ring; and in the Elector of Saxony's Stable is to be seen a Clock in the Pommel of a Saddle. The Story of Regio Montanus's wooden Eagle that flew an English mile to meet the Emperor Maximilian, and return'd with him to Norimberg; as also of the Iron Fly (made by the same Person) that flew round the Room, and return'd to his Hand, are seriously related be Keckerman and Pet. Ramus. The Germans claim the Invention of the Art of PRINTING, whereof something hath been already said in our description of Haerlem; but because that Art is so very curious, and hath been so serviceable to the World, we shall a little enlarge in the History of it. We have said already, That Lawrence Coster of Haerlem found out the Art by accident, and had brought it to some perfection, but was robb'd of his Materials by a Servant who fled with 'em to Germany: This the Dutch men say; but the Germans alledge, That John Guttemburg, an Alderman of Strasburg, first Invented it in the year 1440. and remov'd with it to Mentz, printed several Books, in which he made use of Cast Letters of Mettal in the same manner as now used. The Hollanders in answer affirm, that it was Coster's Servant that taught Guttemburg, and that the Servant's name was John Faust; which name is set in all the first Printed Books, as the Printer of them. Tully's Offices printed in 1465. is to be seen in the Bodleian Library at Oxford, and in many other places, with this Inscription at the end: Praesens M. Tulii clarissimum opus. Johannes Faust, Moguntinus Cives, non attramento, plumali, canna ne{que} area. Sed arte quadam perpulera. Petri manu pueri mei feliciter effici finito Anno MCCCCLXV. Angelus Rocca in his Account of the Vatican Library (printed at Rome in 1591.) says, that he had seen Donatus's Grammar, printed upon Vellum with this Inscription at the beginning: Johannes Faustus, Cives Moguntinus, Avus Maternus Johannis Schoeffer, primus excogitavit imprimendi artem Typis aereis: Quos deinde plumbeas invenit: multaque ad poliendam artem addidit ejus filius Petrus Scheffer: Impressus est autem hic Donatus primum omnium, A. D. MCCCCL. Admonitus certe fuit ex donato Hollandiae prius impresso in tabula incisa. But this he does not say was printed in the Book. In an old Chronicle of Colen, printed in 1496. 'tis said, That the hint of this Art was given from Holland, where an Impression of this Donatus had been made before that of Mentz. So that upon the whole, the Invention may be granted to Holland, but improved and propagated in Germany; whence it was carried again to Holland, and from thence brought to England very early, by Caxton and Tourner, whom king Henry VI. sent at his own Expence to learn it; these prevail'd upon one of the Printer's Men at Haerlem to steal away and come with them to England; where being arrived, they set to Work at Oxford; and having taught other Men, Printing-houses were set up at Westminster, S. Albans, Worcester, and other places. There is now to be seen at Oxford, S. Jerom upon the Creed with this at the end: Explicit expositio Sancti Jeronimi in simbolo Apostolorum ad Papam Laurentium. Impressa Oxoniae & finita Anno Domini, MCCCCLXVIII. xvii die Decembris.
But to return to the Germans,
The Invention of Guns is undisputedly theirs, which was also produc'd by an Accident, in this manner: One Barthold Schwartz a Friar, in making Chimical Experiments, had one day mixed some Saltpetre and Brimstone with other Ingredients, and set them upon the Fire in a Crucible; but a Spark getting in, the Pot suddenly broke with great violence and wonderful noise; which unexpected effect surpriz'd him at first, but thinking further on the Matter, he repeated the Experiment, and finding the Effect constant, set himself at work to improve it: To which purpose he caused an Iron-pipe to be made with a small hole at the lower end to fire it at, and putting in some of his new Ingredient together with some small stones, set fire to it, and found it answer'd his expectation in penetrating all before it. This happen'd about the year 1330 and was soon improv'd to the making of great Ordnance, &c.
To these Inventions of the Germans, we may add their improvement of the Art of Chimistry; which being brought hither by Albertus Magnus, was very much studied by the Monks, and much time lost by them in the search of the Philosopher's Stone, and the Study of the Rosicrucian Philosophy.
The RELIGION of the ancient Germans was Paganism, which was driven out of several parts of it by the Preaching of S. Clemens, S. Crescens, S. Mark, S. Maternus, S. Eutherius, and other the immediate Successors of the Apostles: So that in the middle of the second Century, Christianity was in a flourishing State in Germany, as is testified by S. Irenaeus. But the remote Northern parts remain'd long in their blind Superstition; the Saxons not being Converted till the time of Charles the Great: As we shall shew more particularly when we come to speak of that Nation.
The Corruptions that crept into the Romish Church in the middle Ages, dispers'd themselves hither, and were generally believ'd, before John Huss and Jerom of Prague did, about the year 1407. oppose those Errors, and Preach up the Doctrin of Wiclef; for which they were both burnt at the Council of Constance: But their Followers in Bohemia being numerous, obtained a Tolleration of the Emperor, and continued administring the Sacraments in both kinds, and in several things acting contrary to the Church of Rome: In which State the Reformation stood when Luther appear'd for it, upon the following occasion.
In the year 1517. Pope Leo X. in pursuance of the pretended Power of the Popes in pardoning Sins, sent abroad his Letters and Bulls, promising Pardons to all that would purchase them with Mony: And the Friars were employ'd to Preach up the Doctrin, and Offices establish'd in several parts of Germany, to receive the Mony that the ignorant People gave for the Indulgences the Collectors were impower'd to give them. These Preachers, continually buzzing in the People's Ears the efficacy of the Popes Pardons, and the mercenary manner of prostituting of them, raised Indignation in many; and therefore Martin Luther was soon favour'd in opposing it. He was a Doctor of Divinity and an Augustine Friar, living at Wittemberg in Saxony: At which place, in the same year, 1517. he began to preach against the Pope's Power of pardoning Sins, and publish'd Theses concerning Purgatory, Penance, &c. which were answer'd by Tetzelius, Eckius, Prierias and others, on the Pope's side. To which Luther reply'd, and being now favour'd by Frederick the Elector of Saxony, proceeded in time from one Point to another, till he shook the very Foundation of the Roman Church; a publick Disputation being held at Leipsick in 1519. between him and Eckius, wherein the Authority and Primacy of the Pope was the Subject of the Argument. And in a few years not only the Elector of Saxony, but the Dukes of Brunswick, Mecklenbrrg and Lunenburg, the Marquiss of Brandenburg, the Landgrave of Hesse, together with several other Princes and many Imperial Cities embrac'd his Doctrin. In 1629. a Decree was made against it by the Diet at Spire, against which the Elector of Saxony, the Marquis of Brandenburg, the Dukes of Lunenburg, the Landgrave, together with the Deputies of Strasburg, Norimberg, Ʋlm, Constance, and ten other Imperial Cities, entred a publick Protestation; which gave occasion to the name of PROTESTANT, the Lutherans from that time being so call'd. In the next year the Princes above-mentioned, presented the Confession of their Faith to the Emperor, in the Diet at Augsburg; which being rejected, and a Decree made against their Opinions, the Protestant Princes and Cities met at Smalcald, and entred into a Defensive League about the end of the same year, 1630. and not long after a War broke out, between them and the Emperor, which lasted many years, till in the end the Emperor comply'd; and, by the Pacification of Passaw in 1552. agreed, That Matters concerning Religion should be referred to the Diet: Which being assembled at Augsburg in the year 1555. decreed, That neither the Emperor, nor any other Prince or State, should in any manner whatsoever hurt or injure any Man for the Confession of the Augustan (or Protestant) Religion, nor force any of the Princes to forsake their Religion, Ceremonies or Laws, which they had already instituted in their Dominions, or which those of the Augustan Confession should thereafter Institute, or that the Emperor or Princes should contemn the same, but suffer them freely to Profess this Religion, and quietly enjoy their Goods and Estates; together with much more to that purpose, as may be seen, at large, in Sleidan's Hist. of the Reform. in Germany, lately Translated into English. So that at present the Lutheran Religion is profess'd in the Dominions of all those Princes and Cities abovementioned, and many others; as the Roman Catholick is in Austria, Bavaria, the Spiritual Electorates, &c.
The Germans value themselves extreamly upon speaking a Primitive LANGUAGE, and have obstinately refused to borrow Words of their Neighbours, tho' they are forc'd to make very uncouth Compounds, to be able to express themselves intelligibly. The Radical Words themselves are very harsh and abound with Consonants; and many of these being put together, fill the Mouth 'tis true and make a thundering Sound, which is call'd Manly; but to a Stranger it seems as untuneable as the Welch, and as difficult to learn. Compounds 'tis granted is an Elegancy, but excess in every thing is ill; and no Language is copious enough of its self to furnish all Words; which themselves begin to be sensible of, and do therefore now admit some few French words, for the better and more intelligibly expressing themselves. In short, the High Dutch hath the Reputation of a manly noble Language, but withal, not tuneable or docible, and is fitter for a General than a Courtier. It extends very far, for not only in Germany, but in Denmark and Sweden, the High Dutch is spoken, with some variation of Dialect, as also in Swisserland; not to mention Holland and Flanders, the Language whereof is of the same original, but varied so much that the Germans disown it, and have given it the Name of Low Dutch for distinction.
Concerning the ANCIENT STATE of Germany we can only say, That from the beginning of History it was divided into many Nations, who, tho' they they all spoke the same Language, preserv'd their separate Governments; and though by Invasions of Neighbours and Wars among themselves, several Revolutions have happen'd in almost all the Parts, yet to this day it is divided into a great number of Principalities, every one of which hath had a different Fate; as the Reader will find in the following Description of them.
The greatest Monarchy that hath been in Germany was that of Charles the Great, otherwise call'd Charlemaigne, King of France; for he was not only Lord of the Parts upon the Lower Rhine and the Maine, but by his Arms subdued Saxony and Bavaria; and acquiring the Honour of Emperor of the Romans, resided with it here; and Germany hath ever since been called, The Sacred Roman Empire.
But to be inform'd how Charles attain'd this titular Honour, it is necessary to look back into the latter State of Italy, and see by what degrees the Roman Monarchy declin'd, and at last expir'd in the Person of Augustulus 300 years before the time of Charles the Great: The beginning whereof must be dated from Constantine the Great; for tho' he was a very wise and excellent Prince, yet by removing the Seat of the Empire to Byzantium (now call'd Constantinople) he left these Western parts naked; and exposed to the Ravages of those swarms of Northern People that soon after invaded them. At his death Constantine dividing the Empire between his Sons, first erected the Eastern and Western Empires, the Seat of one being Constantinople, and the other Rome: But the latter became again united under the Eastern Emperor, and continued so till the death of Theodosius, who again divided it for the sake of his two Sons Arcadius and Honorius; these were succeeded for about 80 years by several Eastern and Western Emperors; but both the one and the other very sensibly declin'd; especially the Western Empire, by the Invasion of the Goths and other barbarous Northern Nations (who seized its Provinces, invaded Italy, and sack'd even Rome it self) was brought very low, and none of the latter Emperors made any considerable figure in the World: The last of them was Augustulus, against: whom Odoacer King of the Heruli waged War, subdued a great part of Italy, took Augustulus Prisoner, and made him resign the Empire, and finally determine that Dignity: This happen'd about the year, 476. The Heruli reign'd but a little while, being conquer'd by the Ostrogoths, and those at last driven out by Justinian, and Italy again made a part of the Eastern Empire; till (the Power of those Emperors being much declin'd) the Popes found means to obtain the Temporal as well as Spiritual Jurisdiction over a great part of it; and the Lombards conquer'd another large part, and erected a considerable Monarchy; which, at last, the Popes grew uneasy at, and therefore stirred up the French Kings against them; and Pope Adrian I. being besieged in Rome by Desiderius King of Lombardy, sent to Charlemaign for assistance; who accordingly invaded Lombardy, overcame Desiderius, and was himself crowned King: By which he became Lord of a great part of Italy, as he was before of Germany and France. Upon this occasion it was that th• Pope, in gratitude for the Service he had done him, and to secure to himself so powerful a Protector, by consent of the People of Rome, declared Charles Emperor, and erected anew the Western Empire. But inasmuch as the Pope was Lord of the Territory about Rome, and Charles in his turn must shew his Gratitude, he left that City to the Pope, and fixed the Seat of the Empire in Germany; which was also more convenient to him, because more in the middle of his Dominions. Thus Germany became the Seat of the Western Empire; which Dignity (though but a shadow of the ancient Roman) it has ever since born, under the Government of these following Princes.
A Chronological Table of the Emperors of Germany.

Reg. y.

Charles the Great began to reign 800 14.

Lewis the Godly, his Son 814 26

Lotharius, Son to Lewis 840 15

Lewis II. Son to Lotharius 855 19

Charles the Bald Son of Lewis I. 875 2

Lewis the Bald Son of Charles 878 1

Charles the Gross his Son 879 9

He was deposed, and

Arnolph Son of Caroloman, Duke of Carinthia and King of Bavaria, elected Emperor 888 12

Lewis IV. Son of Arnolph, elected 900 12

Conrad Duke of Franconia, elected 912 7

Henry the Fowler, D. of Saxony, elected 919 26

Otho the Son of Henry 936 37

Otho II. succeeded his Father 973 11

Otho III. Son of Otho II. in whose time the manner of choosing the Emp. by the 7 Electors 'tis said was instituted. 984 18

Henry Duke of Bavaria, chosen by the Princes 1002 22

Conrad. Elected 1024 15

Henry the Son of Conrad 1039 17

Henry IV. his Son 1056 50

Henry V. his Son 1106 19

Lotharius Duke of Saxony 1125 13

Conrad Duke of Schawben 1138 14

Frederick Barbarossa Duke of Schawben 1138 31

Henry his Son 1190 8

Philip Brother to Henry, elected, but excommunicated by the Pope 1198 10

Otho Duke of Brunswick, also chosen Emperor.

Otho Son of Henry the Lyon D. of Saxony 1208 4

Frederick II. King of Sicily, Grandson of Frederick Barbarossa 1212 38

Conrad IV. Son of Frederick, against whom six other Princes were elected by the several Factions now risen in Germany, on account of the Pope's assuming Power over the Emperor. Among these seven, Richard Earl of Cornwall, Brother to our Henry III. was one. After a long Interregnum

Rodolph Earl of Hapsburg, was unanimously elected 1273 19

Adolph Earl of Nassaw 1292 6

Albert Duke of Austria set up against Adolph, whom he slew, and was crowned 1298 10

Henry Duke of Luxemburg 1308

Poyson'd by a Monk in administring him the Sacrament, after he had reigned 4 Y. 9 M.

An Interregnum.

Lewis Duke of Bavaria, elected 1318 28

Charles IV. Son of John K. of Bohemia 1346 32

Wenceslaus Son to Charles 1378 22

Rupert Elector Palatine 1400 10

Jodocus Barbatus Marquess of Moravia 1410 5 M.

Sigismund Earl of Luxemburg, Brother of Wenceslaus King of Bohemia and Hungary 1411 27

Albert II. D. of Austria Son of Sigismund 1439 1

Frederick III. Duke of Austria 1440 53

Maximilian Son of Frederick, crowned King of the Romans in his Father's time, and succeeded him 1493 25

Charles V. Son of Philip King of Spain, and Grandson to Maximilian 1519 38

Ferdinand, Brother to Charles 1558 6

Maximilian II. Son of Ferdinand 1564 12

Rodolph, Maximilian's Son 1576 36

Matthias Brother to Rodolph 1612 7

Ferdinand of Gratz, Grands. of Ferdinan. I. 1619 17

Ferdinand III. succeeded his Father 1637 20

LEOPOLD Son of Ferdinand III. elected July 8th 1658

[now reigning.

The present EMPEROR was born Jun. 9. 1640. nominated King of Hungary, Jun. 27. 1655. King of Bohemia, Aug. 2. 1656. elected King of the Romans, Jun. 18. 1658. and crowned Emperor, July 22. He married Margaret of Austria Daughter to Philip IV. King of Spain, and Sister to the late King of France, on the 12th of April, 1663. She died Mar. 20. 1673. leaving Issue one Daughter, who was married to the present Elector of Bavaria. The Emperor married again Oct. 15. 1673. Claudia Daughter to Ferdinand Arch-duke of Inspruch, who died Apr. 8. 1676. leaving no Issue. He married a third time on the 6th Jan. 1677. Mary, eldest Daughter of Philip Duke of Newburg now Elector Palatine, by whom he has Issue
JOSEPHƲS-Jacobus-Ignatius-Joannes-Antonius-Eustachius, born July 16. 1678. He was Crowned King of Hungary in 1688. and chosen King of the Romans, Jan. 24. 1690.
CAROLƲS-Franciscus-Josephus, &c. born Oct. 1. 1685.
And several Daughters.
Of the Power of the Emperor.
Having shewn how the King of Germany obtain'd the pompous Title of Romanorum Imperator, and how many Princes have succeeded in that Dignity, it remains that we speak something of the Territories subject to his Dominions, and of his Power: It is plain by what we have already said, That Charles the Great got nothing but a bare Title by the Pope's saluting him Emperor: Germany and France were already in his possession, Lombardy he had just Conquer'd, Spain had been long possess'd by the Goths, and the Popes had a good part of Italy; so that the Citizens of Rome had nothing to bestow upon him but the Honour, when they declared him their Emperor. However, That Title his Successors have been careful in preserving, and always write themselves Caesar, in memory of Julius, and Augustus from Octavius, in imitation of the Roman Emperors: They also call'd Germany the Sacred Roman Empire, and endeavour in all things to keep up the Grandeur of those ancient Princes. The Dominions of Charlemaign were soon divided; His Son Lewis the Godly erecting out of 'em many Kingdoms, as we have already shewn in our account of the Kings of France: Germany with the Imperial Honour he gave to his eldest Son Lotharius, but h•s Posterity proving mean degenerate Persons, they soon lost it, and several of the Princes were afterwards elected to that Dignity, Germany in time being divided among several Princes, whose Powers were exceedingly encreas'd by the Offices and Dignities that the Emperors conferr'd on them, and at several times made Hereditary to their Families. These Offices were Hertogen or Dukes, to whom were committed the Government of the larger parts of Germany; Graffen or Earls, who had the care of smaller parts; Pfaltz-graven, Counts Palatine or Praefects of the Court-Royal, who administred Justice in the Verge of the Court; Landgraves, who were Presidents set over Provinces; Marggraves or Marquisses, who were Presidents of the Marches or Borders for repelling the Incursions of Enemies and administring Justice to the Inhabitants; also Burggraves, who were Governors of the Royal Castle or Forts. These Offices being made Hereditary, the Possessors of them in time obtain'd Sovereign Authority in their respective Governments; which the Emperors, either through their own Liberality, or being prevail'd on by Mony or Service, or oblig'd by some exigency of Affairs, have at several times confirm'd to them: So that at present tho' the Emperor be supream Lord over all Germany, he is not Master of any particular part of it (except some few of the Princes Estates that have return'd to the Crown as Fiefs for want of Heirs) it being all subject to the several Princes.
The Power of the Emperor hath been so restrain'd by several Capitularies or Agreements between the Emperors and Princes, that 'tis difficult to say what it is: The best account that can be given of it is, That he exercises Regal Authority over all Germany, excepting in such things that by the Grants of his Predecessors he is restrain'd; the chief whereof are as follows, according to a late Author that collected it out of them. First, the Emperor hath not the Legislative Power. The general Law all over the Empire is the Civil or Roman, mix'd with the Canon, and the old Customs of the Germans; and in the several States the particular Laws made by them, which firmly oblige in their own Dominions. To these are added the Statutes of the Diets, by which alone can any new Law be introduced, or any Law made that will bind all the States; and such Statute or Recess (as it is call'd) of the Diet, obliges the Emperor also. Next, the Emperor cannot levy Taxes. If there be occasion for Mony to be raised for the Service of the Empire in general, it cannot be done without the consent of the Diet. By the Capitulary of the present Emperor, he is tyed up from beginning a War, or making Alliance with a Foreigner without the consent of the Electors. By the same it is declar'd, That the Emperor shall not deprive any Prince or State of their Dignity or Dominions. Nor can he impose Religion on any Prince or State, or punish any Man on that account.
But what I have been saying of the limitation of the Emperor's Power, is to be understood of him as he is Emperor; for in his own hereditary Dominions he may act as he pleases with respect to the particular Laws there: Wherefore, the present Emperor being King of Hungary and Bohemia, Arch-duke of Austria, Duke of Silesia and Marquess of Moravia, Duke of Stiria, Carinthia and Carniola, Earl of Tyrol, Cilley and Gorice, and Lord of many Cities and Territories in Schwaben, besides what he has lately gain'd from the Turks, is a very powerful and mighty Prince, and able to carry on a War at his own Expence, though the Diet should happen to disagree with him.
The Emperor only can confer Honours, create Princes and affranchize Cities; all the Princes receive Investiture from him; he instituteth Universities. and 'tis he only can give leave to build Cities, He is serv'd by the greatest Princes of Germany, address'd to by the name of Caesar, and semper Augustus, and his Embassadors in Foreign Courts take place of those of all the Kings and States of Europe.
Of the King of the Romans, the Electors of the Empire, and the other Princes of Germany.
The King of the Romans is a Dignity erected of late Ages, being begun in the time of Charles IV. He is chosen to be the Emperor's Deputy in case of his Absence or Sickness, and upon his Death to succeed him without other Election. This was introduced in Policy by the Emperors, that they might in their Lives time secure the Succession to their Family, and procure their Successors better Terms than they might be able to obtain in a vacancy. This Dignity, therefore, is not constantly in being, and hath been only conferr'd when the Emperors have had a Son to succeed, and have had Interest enough to engage the Electors to choose him. The Son of the present Emperor was elected to this Honour on the 24th Jan. 1682/90. and crown'd at Augsburg two days after.
The Electoral Princes are Nine in number, viz. 1. The Archbishop of Mentz, who is styled Arch-Chancellor of Germany, Dean of the Electoral College, sits on the Emperor's right Hand in the Diet, and had formerly the right of crowning the King of Bohemia. 2. The Archbishop of Trier, who is call'd Arch-Chancellor of France and the Kingdom of Arles, and claims the first Vote in the election of the Emperor; he sits over against the Emperor in the Diet. 3. The Archbishop of Cologn, he has the Title of Arch-Chancellor of Italy, claims the first Vote in chusing the King of the Romans, and of setting the Crown on his Head; he sits next the Emperor on his left Hand. 4. The King of Bohemia, he is Lord Cup-bearer to the Emperor, first of the secular Electors, and in publick Processions walks next the Emperor or King of the Romans. 5. The Duke of Bavaria, who is Lord Sewer, and carrieth the Globe before the Emperor in solemn Processions. 6. The Duke of Saxony, he is Lord High Marshal of the Empire, and carrieth the naked Sword before the Emperor. 7. The Marquess of Brandenburg, he is Lord High Chamberlain, and in Processions carrieth the Scepter before the Emperor. 8. The Count Palatine of the Rhine, who is Lord High Treasurer, and in the Procession at the Coronation scattereth the Medals among the People. 9. The Duke of Brunswick-Lunenburg-Hanover.
These have much greater Authority, and enjoy larger Privileges and Rights than the other Princes of Germany. They chuse the Emperor and King of the Romans, and pretend a Power of Deposing him. In some Cases they exclude the rest of the States, and consult by themselves Matters of greatest Importance; the Emperor is oblig'd to ask their Advice when he calls a Diet. In an Interregnum the Elector of Saxony and the Elector Palatine of the Rhine govern the Empire; in which case, the jurisdiction of the former extends over all the Northern part, and the latter governs all the Countries on the Rhine, the Circle of Schawben, &c. but the Duke of Bavaria disputes this Right with the Count Palatine, and at the death of the last Emperor did actually take the Office upon him; which the other protested against, and complain'd of as an Usurpation upon his Right.
At what time or by what means these Princes first obtain'd the Electoral Power is not certainly known: The common Opinion is, That the Emperor Otho III. and Pope Gregory V. instituted them; but this is disputed, and many learned Men are of Opinion, That tho' it be true that from the time of Otho, the Empire was elective, yet that the Elections were not made by these seven Princes only, but by the great Officers of the Empire in general, of whom these being the chief and most considerable by their Estates, made a shift to overtop the rest, and assume that Power wholly to themselves; this is dated from the time of Frederick II. and Conrad IV. at the death of the last of which, several Elections were made at the same time, and the Affairs of Germany put into great disorder thereby. But these Princes having Power enough to repeal this Act, made it a Custom, which was at last past into a Law by the Emperor Charles IV. who made that famous Bulla Area (so call'd from the golden Seal affix'd to it) that contains the whole form of the Election and Power of the Electors. The number of these Electors were then but seven, to whom an eighth was added in this Age on the following occasion: Frederick V. Count Palatinate, falling into difference with the Emperor, and accepting of the Crown of Bohemia in opposition to the pretension of Ferdinand II. was by him proscrib'd; and being defeated at the Battle of Prague in the year, 1620. was depriv'd of his Country and Honours, which the Emperor bestowed upon the Duke of Bavaria: But great Contests and Wars ensuing thereupon, it was at last agreed in the Westphalian Treaty, A. D. 1648. That the Count Palatine should be restor'd to his Electoral Dignity. But because the Duke of Bavaria could not be brought to part with his, an eighth Electorate was erected for him, and part of his Country, viz. the Lower Palatinate, being restor'd he has since had the Title of Elector Palatine of the Rhine, and the eighth Seat in the Electoral College. To this number there has been yet another added very lately, viz. in the year, 1693. and by the Emperor's favour conferr'd on Ernestus Augustus Duke of Brunswick-Lunenburg-Hanover.
The other Princes are, the Dukes of Lunenburg, Mechlenburg, Wurtemburg, Sax-Lauwenburg, Sax-Naumburg, Sax-Hall, Sax-Gotha, Sax-Mersburg, &c. the Marquisses of Baden, Culembach, &c. the Landgraves of Hesse, the Princes of East-Friezland, Anhalt, Montbeliard, Birkfield, Nassaw, Furstemburg, Hoenzolleren, &c. the Counts of Solm, Dietrichstein, Aversburg, with many others. As also, the Archbishop of Saltzburg, the Bishops of Munster, Liege, Wurtzburg, Bamberg, Paderborn, Osnabrug, Aichstadt, Strasburg, Augsburg, Basil, Constans, Hildesheim, Spire, Worms, Passaw and Lubeck, together with some Abbots, and the Great Master of the Teutonick Order, &c. these have Sovereign Authority in their own Estates, and govern their Subjects without cognizance of the Emperor.
There is yet another Class of Sovereign States in Germany, viz.
The Imperial Cities and Hanse-Towns.
The Cities of Germany were, from their beginning, endow'd with large Priviledges, which were given by the Princes that built them to invite the People to inhabit them, and leave the rude manner of Living they had been accustom'd to before the Fifth Century after Christ. Accordingly, upon this encouragement, they flock'd to the Cities and betook themselves to Manufactures and Trades; by which being in time grown Rich, many of the Cities obtain'd by purchase or otherwise, exemption from the jurisdiction of the Princes in whose Dominion they stood, and by permission of the Emperors at several times, were erected into independent States, to be govern'd by their own Magistrates under the protection of the Emperor, each City paying its proportion in all Taxes levied for the publick Service of the Empire; and these are those Cities that are call'd Imperial and Free, and are very numerous, the Catalogue of them would be too tedious; the Reader will find them noted in the following Description, to which we refer him. These Cities have frequently made Leagues for their mutual Defence: As also for the sake of Trade, upon which account was form'd the famous
Hanseatick Society, which was a League made between several of the Maritime Cities of Germany, (whereof Hamburg and Lubeck were the Chief) about the end of the 13th. Century, for their mutual assistance in carrying on their Commerce, by which they grew very considerable, and engag'd many Cities into their Society, even to the number of near fourscore; they also obtained large Privileges, and exercised a Jurisdiction among themselves; to which purpose they were divided into four Circles, distinguish'd by the names of the four Principal Cities among them, viz. Lubeck, Cologn, Brunswick and Dantzick wherein were held their Courts of Judicature. They were call'd Hanse or Anse, q. d. am zee on the Sea, because the Society at first consisted only of such, tho afterwards many Inland Cities were introduced: 'Tis true, this Etymology is disputed, and many others assign'd; but this seems the most probable, and therefore we shall name no more. The most flourishing time of this Society was from about the year 1400 to 1500. after which it declin'd, and is at present not very considerable.
Of the Diet of the Empire.
The Diet or Parliament of Germany is compos'd of the Electors, the Princes, Spiritual and Temporal, of the Empire; and the Deputies of the Imperial Cities. This general Assembly of all the Estates of the Empire is summoned by the Emperor, by Letters directed to every Member six Months before the Session, informing them of the time and place. When they are assembled, the Emperor, or his Commissioner proposes to them the Matters to be transacted, which are things that concern the whole Empire in general, such as raising Mony for a Foreign War, and making Laws which oblige all the States. The Diet is divided into three Houses, which are, the Electors, the Princes, and the Cities: In the first the Bishop of Mentz is Speaker; in the second some Prince of the House of Austria and the Bishop of Saltzburg by turns; and in the third, that City in which the Session is held. The Princes are divided into two Benches, the Spiritual and Temporal: The Cities also are divided into two Benches, the Rheinische and the Sc•wabische; on the former sit the Deputies of the Cities on the Rhine, &c. and on the latter the Cities in Schwaben, Franconia, &c. The Diet was formerly assembled annually, but latterly not so often, except at this time of War; and it is at the Emperor's pleasure to call it; only in case of his omission the Electors may advise him to it; the States judging it convenient that it be assembled once in three years. The place of its Meeting is also at the Emperors disposal; Mentz was by Charles the Great appointed for it, but it has since been held at several other free Cities: At present Ratisbon is the usual place of its meeting.
Of the Supream Courts of Judicature.
The chief Court for determining great Causes in Germany is the Imperial Chamber: At first the Emperors with their chief Ministers heard and decided all considerable Causes, but those growing numerous, Maximilian I. settl'd a Court at Worms in 1495. which was afterwards removed to Spire, and nam'd the Imperial Chamber, wherein Causes are Tryed by certain Judges call'd Assessors; of these at first there were sixteen, now fifty, whereof the Emperor appoints the President and the four chief Officers, the Electors chuse each of them one, and the rest are nam'd by the other Princes and States of the Empire; Disputes between the Princes are brought before this Court, as also other Causes, by Appeal from Inferior Cours. The Seat of it was establish'd at Spires, never to be remov'd without consent of the Diet; but in this present War, the City having been taken and burnt by the French, it is remov'd and and establish'd at Wetstar in Hesse, by consent of the Diet.
The Emperor holds another high Court in his Palace, which is call'd the Chamber of Vienna, and is of equal Authority with that of Spire: The Emperor by himself, or Deputy, sits as Chief, and is assisted by a certain number of Judges, whereof part are Protestants: This Court decides all great Causes brought by Appeal from subordinate Courts, and claims the same Authority with the Chamber of Spire.
The Arch-bishopricks, Bishopricks and Ʋniversities in Germany. For the Government of the Church there are seven Arch-bishops, and thirty five Bishops; which are as follow.

I. The Arch-bishop of Mentz hath 12 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of 1. Spire, 2. Worms, 3. Strasburg, 4. Wurtzburg, Aichstat, 6. Verden, 7. Chur, 8. Hildesheim, 9. Paderborn, 10. Constance, 11. Halberstadt, and 12. Bamburg exempt.

II. The Arch-bishop of Trier hath 3 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of Metz, Toul and Verdun.

III. The Arch-bishop of Cologn hath 4 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of Liege, Munster, Minden and Osnabruck.

IV. The Arch-bishop of Magdeburg, hath 5 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of Meissen exempt, Maesburg, Naumburg, Brandenburg and Havelberg.

V. The Arch-bishop of Saltzburg hath 10 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of 1. Freisenghen, 2. Ratisbon exempt, 3. Passaw, 4. Chiemse, 5. Seckaw, 6. Lavant. 7. Brixen, 8. Gurk, 9. Vienna exempt, and 10. Newstadt.

VI. The Arch-bishop of Bremen hath 3 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of Lubeck, Ratzburg and Scheweirin.

VII. The Arch-bishop of Prague hath 3 Suffragans, viz.
The Bishops of Olmutz, Leutmeritz and Koningsgratz.

And, for Propagation of Learning, Universities are establish'd in these following Cities, viz.

Founded A. D.

At Vienna, 1365

Prague, 1358

Mentz, 1482

Cologn. 1388

Triers, 1558

Liege, 1129

Heidelberg, 1346

Leipsick, 1408

Erfurt, 1391

Friburg, 1463

Ingolstadt, 1472

Tubingen, 1477

Rostock, 1490

Wittemberg, 1502

Francfort on the Oder, 1506

At Marpurg. 1526

Strasburg, 1538

Gripswald, 1547

Dillinghen, 1549

Jena, 1558

Lewenghen, about 1560

Helmstadt, 1576

Herbron, now Sigen, 1589

Paderborn, 1592

Altorf, 1622

Giessen, 1607

Olmutz in Moravia,

Kiel, 1669

Gratz, New.

At Hanaw a Schola illustris.

The EMPIRE is divided in TEN CIRCLES, which are as follow.
The Circle of the ƲPPER SAXONY containing the Dukedom of Pomerania, the Electorate of Brandenburg, and the States of Saxony; the Earldoms of Mansfield, Schwartzenburg, Stolberg and Barby, the Landgraviate of Thuringen, the Marquisate of Misnia with the Dutchies of Altemburg, Mersburg, and Naumburg and Voitland; as also the Bishoprick of Havelberg, the Abby of Queidlemberg, &c. The Director of this Circle is the Elector of Saxony.
The Circle of the LOWER SAXONY, which contains the Dutchy of Holstein, the Dutchies of Mecklenburg, Lawenburg, Bremen, Perden, Brunswick, Lunenburg, Hanover, and Magdeburg, the Principality of Halberstadt, the Bishopricks of Hildersheim and Lubeck. The Directors of this Circle are the Duke of Brandenburg and the Duke of Brunswick by turns.
The Circle of WESTPHALIA, containing the County of Emden or East-Friezland, the County of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst, the Bishoprick of Munster, the Principality of Minden, the Counties of Diepholt, Hoya, Benthem, Tecklenburg, Steinfort, Lemgow, Lippe, Ravensburg and Spigelburg, the Bishopricks of Osnabruck, Paderborne and Liege, and the Abbey of Corbey; the Dutchy of Westphalia, the Dutchy of Cleeves, the Dutchy of Juliers, the Dutchy of Berg, and the County of Marck. The Directors are the Bishop of Munster and the Duke of Newburg.
The Circle of the LOWER RHINE, wherein are the three Spiritual Electorates and Archbishopricks of Mentz, Triers and Cologn, the Palatinate, and the Electorate of the Rhine, with the Bishoprick of VVorms. The Director is the Arch-bishop of Mentz.
The Circle of the ƲPPER RHINE, contains the Landgraviates of Hesse and Darmstadt, the Counties of Nassaw, Solms, VValdeck, Hanaw, Erpach; the Bishoprick of Spires, the Abbies of Fuld and Hirschfeld, the Dutchy of Zweibrukken, and Alsatia. The Elector Palatine and the Bishop of VVorms are the Directors.
The Circle of FRANCONIA, wherein are contain'd the Bishoprick of VVurtzburg, Bamberg and Aihhstadt; the Principality of Hemeberg, the Dutchy of Coburg, the Marquisate of Culembach, the Marquisate of Ohnspach, the Burgraviate of Neurenberg, the Estate of the Great Master of the Teutonick Order, the Counties of Reineck, VVertheim, Holach, Papenheim, Schwartzenberg, Castel and Sensheim. The Directors of this Circle are the Bishop of Bamberg and the Marquess of Culembach.
The Circle of SCHVVABEN comprehends the Dutchy of VVurtemburg, with the County of Loebenstein, and the Principality of Hoen-Zollern, the Marquisate of Baden, the Marquisate of Ortnaw, the Territory of Brisgow, the Bishoprick of Constance, the Principality of Furstemburg, and County of Rheinfelden, the Bishoprick of Augsburg, the Abbies of Kempten, &c. the Counties of Oeting, Koniseck and Mindelheim; the Marquisate of Burgaw, the Baronies of Limpurg and Justingen, the Estate of the Fuggers, and the Territory of Ʋlm. The Directors are the Duke of VVurtemburg, and the Bishop of Constance.
The Circle of BAVARIA, contains the Dutchy and Electorate of Bavaria, with the Bishopricks of Freisengen, Ratisbon and Passaw; the Palatinate of Bavaria, the Dutchy of Newburg, the County of Sultzback and the Abbey of VValdsassen, the Archbishoprick of Slatzburg, and the Provostship of Bergtelsgarden. The Directors of this Circle are the Elector of Bavaria and the Arch-bishop of Saltzburg.
The Circle of AƲSTRIA, wherein are contain'd the Arch-dukedom of Austria, the Dutchies of Stiria, Carinthia, Carniola, the County of Tyrol, and the Bishoprick of Trent. The Arch-duke of Austria is Director of this Circle.
The other Circle was the 17 Provinces of the Netherlands, which the Emperor Charles V. made a part of the Empire, by the name of the Circle of BƲRGƲNDY, but those have now no Votes in the Diet; and, having been already describ'd, we need not say any more of them.
To these must be added the Kingdom of BOHEMIA, with the Dutchy of SILESIA and Marquisate of LƲSATIA and MORAVIA, all subject to the House of Austria, and reckon'd part of the Empire.
For more particular satisfaction, see the ensuing Table of the division and sub-division of all Germany, viz.

In the Circle of the Lower Saxony are comprehended
The Dukedoms of
Mecklenburg, divided into the Territories of
...Mecklenburg,

...Schwerin,

...Gustrow,

...Rostock,

...VVeismar.

Sax-Lawemburg, and County of Ratzeburg.

Part of the Dutchy of Holstein, wherein stands
...Hamburg,

...Lubeck.

The Dukedoms of
...Bremen.

Brunswick divided into
...Brunswick,

...VVolfembuttel,

...Hanover.

Lunnburg divided into
...Luenenburg,

...Zell,
Zell, D.

Dameberg C.

...Magdeburg.

The Bishoprick of Hildesheim,

The Principality of Halberstadt,

The Principality of Ferden.

In the Circle of the Ʋpper Saxony, are
Pomerania divided into
Royal, subject to the Sweeds, divided into the Territories of
...Bardt,

...Gutzkow,

...Walgost,

...Stetin.

Ducal, under the Elector of Brandenburg, in which are the Territories of
...Pomerania,

...Cassuben,

...Venden,

...Butow,

...Lawenburg.

Brandenburg, divided into
...Altmark.

Middlemark divided into
...Middlemark,

...Prignitz,

...Rupen,

...Ʋkerana.

Newmark divided into
...Newmark,

...Sternberg.

The Dukedom of Saxony.

Principality of Anhalt, divided into
...Dessaw,

...Bruburg,

...Zerbst,

...Koten,

...Plotzka.

Earldom of Mansfeld divided into the Branches of
...Arnstein,

...Vipran,

...VVetinf,

...Querurt.

The Counties of
...Schwartzburg,

...Hohenstein.

Landgraviate of Thuringen.

The Territories of
...Erfurt,

...Eischfeld.

Subject to several Branches of the House of Saxony. The Counties of
...Hall,

...Mersburg,

...Naumburg,

...VVeimer,

...Gotha,

...Eysenach,

...Altenburg.

The Marquisate of Misnia, divided into the Territories of
...Meissen,

...Ertzburg,

...Leypsick.

In the Circle of Westphalia.
The County of Embden or East Friezland.

The County of Oldenburg, with Delmenhorst.

The Bishopricks of
Munster, divided into the
Upper.

Lower.

...Osnabrug,

...Paderborn.

The County of Benthen.

The Principality of Minden,

The Counties of
...Diepholt,,

...Hoye,

...Lemgow,

...Schaumburg.

...Lippe,

...Ravensberg.

...Rheda,

...Spigelberg,

...Ritberg,

...Tecklenberg.

The D. of VVestphalia, under the Elector of Cologn.

The County of Mark.

The Dutchy of
...Berg,

...Juliers,

...Cleeve.

The Bishoprick of Liege.

Several Imperial Cities.

In the Circle of the Lower Rhine.
The Archbishopricks and Electorates of
...MENTZ,

...TRIERS

...COLOGNE

The Electorate of the Rhine, in which are included.
The Palatinate of the Rhine-Sponheim, being the 12 Bailiwicks of Simmeren, Creutsnach, Openheim, &c.

The Bishoprick of Worms.

In the Circle of the Upper Rhine.
Hesse, divided in the Landgraviates of
...Cassel,

...Marpurg,

...Darmstadt.

The Abbies of
...Fuld,

...Hirschfeld.

The County of VValdeck.

The VVateraw, containing the Cities of
Nassaw, divided into these Branches.
...Dillemberg,

...Dietz,

...Hadamar,

...Kerberg,

...Sigen.

...Idestein,

...VVeilburg,

...VVisbaden.

...Bielstein.

...Solms,

...Hanaw,

...Eysenberg,

...Sayn,

...VVied,

...VVitgenstein,

...Hatzfeld,

...VVesterberg.

The County of Erpach.

The Bishoprick of Spire.

The Dutchy of Zweibruken, or Deuxponts.

The County of Catzenelbogen.

Landgraviate of Alsatia divided into
Upper.

Lower.

The Territory of the City of Francfort,

In the Circle of Franconia are these States.
The Bishopricks of
...VVurtzberg,

...Bamberg,

...Aichstat.

The State of the Great Master of the Teutonick Order.

The Marquisates of
...Culembach,

...Onspach.

The Principality of Henneberg.

The Dutchy of Coburg.

The Burgraviate of Nuremburg.

The Counties of
...Holach,

...Castel,

...Schwartzenberg,

...Rcineck,

...VVertheim,

...Holach,

...Papenheim,

...Sensheim,

...Limpurg,

...Erpach.

Several Imperial Cities.

In the Circle of Schwaben are
The Dutchy of Wurtemburg, with the Counties of
...Loebenstein,

...Hohenberg.

And the Principality of Hoenzollern.

Baden divided into the Marquisates of
...Baden,

...Durlach.

Marquisate of Ortnaw.

Territory of Brisgow.

The Black Forest, wherein are
Principality of Furstemburg.

The County of Rheinfelden.

Territory of Hegow comprizing
The Bishoprick of Constance.

Landgraviate Nellenburg.

The Bishoprick of Augsburg.

The Abbies of
...Kempten,

...Buchaw,

...Lindaw.

The Marquisate of Burgaw.

The County of
...Oesing,

...Pappenheim,

...Koningseck,

...Hohenrechburg,

...Mindelheim.

The Barony of Walburgh.

The Estate of the Family of the Fuggers.

The Territory of the City Ʋlm.

And many Imperial Cities.

The Circle of Bavaria.
Nortgow, or the Palatinate of Bavaria, wherein are also included the
...Landgr. Lenchtenburg

County of Chamb.

Territory of Amberg.

The Dutchy and Electorate of Bavaria divided into the Territories of
...Munchen,

...Ingolstadt.

Together with the Bishoprick of
...Freisingen.

County of Partenkirk.

The Lower Bavaria, divided into the three Territories of
...Straubing,

...Landshut,

...Burkhausen.

The Archbishoprick of Saltzburg.

The Bishopricks of
...Ratisbon,

...Passaw.

The Dutchy of Newburg,

The Provostship of Bergtelsgarden.

In the Circle of Austria,
The Arch-Dutchy of Austria, divided into
Higher, divided into the Territories of
...Muhl,

...Schartz,

...Hauss,

...Traun.

Lower, divided into the Territories of
Upper Viennerwald

Lower Viennerwald

Upper Manhartsberg

Lower Manhartsberg.

The Dutchy of Styria, with

The County of Cilley.

The Dutchy of Carniola, with the Marquisate of VVindischmark, and

The County of Goritz.

The Dutchy of Carinthia.

The County of Tirol.

The Bishoprick of Brixen.

The Bishoprick of Trent.

The Kingdom of Bohemia is divided into 16 Circles.
The Marquisate of Lusatia, into Higher and Lower.
The Dutchy of Silesia, divided into Higher and Lower.
The Marquisate of Moravia into Eastern and Western.
Also SAVOY and SVVISSERLAND are reckon'd part of the Empire; but these being now distinct States shall be spoken of apart hereafter.

CHAP. II. Of the Spiritual ELECTORATES.

IN this description of Germany, we shall pursue the same Method as in the other parts, and without regard to the Precedencies of Princes, place the Descriptions according to the situations of the Countries, and therefore begin with Cologne rather than Mentz and Triers, because this lyes first in the way from the Netherlands, whence we are last come, omitting Cleeve and Juliers, till we come back to VVestphalia and the Dominions of the Elector of Brandenburg, whereon they depend.
From Cologne we shall pass up the Rhine, taking in by the way the Maine and Neckar, together with so much of the Moselle as lyes in Germany: And having viewed all the Countries on both sides of these Rivers, pursue our Journey through Suabia to the Danube and the Estates of the House of Austria; thence through Bohemia and its Dependencies, Coast the Oder, Elbe and VVeser, and at last return through VVestphalia again to the Banks of the Rhine.

SECT. I. The Electorate of COLOGNE.

The Arch-bishoprick and Electorate of COLOGNE is extended on the Western Bank of the Rhine, between the Dutchy of Cleeve on the North, and the Electorate of Trier on the South, the Dutchy of Juliers on the West, and that of Berg (parted from it by the Rhine) on the East. It is a fruitful and pleasant Country, producing excellent Wine, besides Corn and other Necessaries for Life. Its extent is not large, for though it be about 40 miles in length, it is not above 7 or 8 in breadth; the Arch-bishop is Supream Lord of it, as also of a pretty large Country in VVestphalia, and is richer and more potent than either of the other two Ecclesiastical Electors; his Annual Revenue being reckon'd to be above 100 Thousand Pounds Sterling. He is dignified with the Title of Arch-Chancellor of the Empire, and Legate in Italy. This See was advanced from Episcopal to Archi-Episcopal in the year 743; to which was added the Dignity of Elector in 1021. The Arch-bishop is chosen by the Chapter, which is the most Illustrious of any in Germany (being composed all of Princes or Noblemen at least (private Gentlemen being excluded) and are 24 in number. The present Ar•hbishop and Elector of Cologne, is Prince Clement, •rother to the Elector of Bavaria, who was choser July 14. 1688. and Invested, notwithstanding the P•etensions of Cardinal Furstemburg, the Justification o• which by the French King, and the Opposition of •t by the Emperor, was the occasion of the beginning o• this present War.
The chief Cities and Towns of this Electorate are,

Cologne, Cap.

...Bonne.

...Mulheim.

...Rheinberck.

...Kempen.

...Keyserswaert.

...Nuys.

...Breel.

...Zons.

...Aremsbe•g.

...Werle.

...Geseck.

...Dorsten.

Recklenhausen, &c.

COLOGNE, or Colen, call'd Keulen by the Germans, and in Latin Colonia Agripina, and Colonia Ʋbiorum is seated on the River Rhine, a• the distance of 65 miles from Mentll, and 35 from •oblentz to the North, 56 from Nimeguen, and 20 from Duseldorp to the South, and 60 from Ma•strich to the West. It is one of the largest Cities of Germany, and very considerable on account of its Buildings, number of Inhabitants, and great Trade in Wine and other Commodies of Germany, which by the means of the Rhine are brought hither, and Transported to Holland. It is a free City, being Govern'd by its own Senate, which orders and judges all Civil Matters and Causes; but Criminal are judg'd by the Elector. It is also one of the four chief Hans Towns and is called the Holy City, because of the many Churches and Religious Houses in it; here being besides the Cathedral, 10 Collegiate and 19 Parochial Churches; also 37 Monasteries and many Hospitals. In the Cathedral they shew the Tombs of the Three Wise Men that came to Worship our Saviour, call'd hence the Three Kings of Colen, whose Bones they pretend were removed to Constantinople by Helena the Mother of Constantine; thence they were carried to Milan, by Eustorsius Bishop of that See, and afterwards brought hither by Rainold Archbishop of Colen. Three Skulls very richly Enshirned are shewn to Strangers, and affirm'd to have belong'd to their Bodies, and to have great Virtue in Curing, Diseases by Touch, &c. One of the Parish-Churches is dedicated to S. Ʋrsula, who with her 11000 Virgins, they say, were Martyr'd here. An University was long since planted here, which being Declin'd, was Reestablished in 1388. and Endow'd with large Privileges by Pope Ʋrban VI. and is at present in a very flourishing State. The Walls of this City are flanked with 83 Towers, and encompass'd with three deep Ditches; whereof see here the Draught.
C•logne was Built, or Repair'd, and Enlarged at least; by the Ʋbii, who possessed the Weteraw and Hassia, and in the time of Augustus obtain'd this Country and Juliers of that Emperor (being disturbed by the Catti their Neighbours) and put themselves under the •rotection of Agrippa, from whence some say it had its na•e, or as others from Agrippina (Daughter to Germanicu. Wife of Claudius, and Mother to Nero) who was born •ere. It was the Metropolis of the Germania Secunda, and the Seat of the chief Roman Colony. Meroue King of France beat the Romans hence about the year 450. •and quickly after Attila the Hunn ruin'd it. Afterwards the Romans Re-built it; and it was again taken by the French, and about the year 500 made part of their Kingdom by Clovis the Great. The Emperor Otho about 950. subjected it to its Prelate, which was opposed by the Citizens; and great Differences at several times have happen'd thereupon, which were at last composed by the Emperor Maximilian, and the City made Free and Imperial, but oblig'd to pay Homage to the Elector, who is also oblig'd to confirm their Privileges: And they are still so tenacious of Liberty, that though the Elector by his Officers exercise Justice in all Criminal Causes in the City, they will not permit him in Person to reside long in Town, nor come with a great Train; for which reason he lives always at Bonne. It was in the year 1260. that this City entred into the League of the Hans Towns, and was made the Capital of their Fourth Province. Cologn is seated in the Lat 51 Deg. and Long. 26 Deg.
In a Convent of Carmelites not far from hence, a Treaty of Peace was set on foot in 1673 between the Emperor, King of Spain, France, &c. And the several Princes sent their Plenipotentiaries accordingly, but it was interrupted by the Seizure of William Prince of Furstemburg, since made Cardinal, who tho' a German and a Count of the Empire, had espoused the Interest of France, and was made that King's Ambassador at this Treaty, in which he carried Matters so high, that he defeated the endeavours of the several Ministers for Peace, and made the Emperor cause him to be Seized and carried to Vienna, where he was detain'd close Prisoner till the Treaty of Nimeguen.
Bonne, Bonna, Colonia Julia Bonna; also Ara Ʋbiorum, from the Altars erected here by the Ʋbii the ancient Inhabitants; is the usual place of Residence of the Archbishop of Colen, who has a magnificent Palace here in the Castle. It stands upon the Rhine 10 miles South from Colen, in a fruitful Country, which produces very good Wine, and the Woods abound with variety of Game. A ridge of Mountains on both sides the Rhine, reach from hence as far as Bingen. It is a small City, but well Inhabited: The Churches are stately, especially the Collegiate Dedicated to the Holy Martyrs Cassius, Florentius, and Malusius, whose Bodies with several other of the famous Theban Legion are said to be Buried in it, being brought hither by S. Helena, who Founded this C•urch to their Honour. The Town-house is well Bu•lt, and adorn'd with fine Paintings. This was former•• an Imperial City, but now subject to the Elect•r. Frederick of Austria, chosen Emperor in opposition to Lewis of Bavaria was Crowned here in 1314. It suffer'd much in the Low Country Wars, was Bes••ged by the Duke of Parma, and forc'd by Famine to surrender in 1588. The Fortifications here are regula•; the Wall is fac'd with Brick, and the Ditches are very broad and dry, but the Counterscarp is not very defensible: See the Draught annext for more particular Information. In 1673. it was taken by the Prince of Orange, our present King, from the French, after a Siege of 9 days. In 1688. Cardinal Furstemburg, in pursuance of his pretended Election above-mention'd, by assistance of the French Troops, got possession of it; but the Germans, under the Command of the Elector of Brandenburg, r•-gain'd it in 1689. after a Siege of three Months.
Rhingberg, is a pretty large Town seated on the Rhine, in a small Country of 10 miles extent, belonging to the Archbishop of Colen, though separated from the rest by the small County of Meurs. It is distant 40 miles from Colen to the North, and 10 from Geldre to the East; a small River (or Canal rather, for it seems to be Artificial) passe• by it and runs quite cross from the Rhine to the Mae: By means of this convenient situation, it hath a go•d Trade, and the Burghers are reasonably Rich. T•is Town being near the Borders of Guelderland, hath been claimed by the Hollanders, and is therefore strongly Fortified.
Kempen, a strong Town and Castle, stands on the Borders of Guelderland and Juliers, 35 miles Northwest from Colen, and 10 miles West from the Rhine. It was remarkable for the gallant Defence it made in 1642. when it was Vigorously Besieg'd by the French, Hessians and Saxons United.
Keyserswert stands on the East-side of the Rhine, between Duysburg and Duseldorp, 12 miles from Kempen to the East, and 25 from Colen to the North-west. It is a small Town and strong Fort, first built, as 'tis said, by one Swibertan an Englishman.
Nuys, or Neuss, Nevotium, Nussia, seated on the River Erp and near the Rhine, 20 miles from Colen to the North, and 15 from Kempen to the South, is a large City and well Fortified, having the River on one side, and a double Wall on the other. The Rhine did anciently run by its Walls, but having alter'd its Channel, they have been forc'd to make a Trench from it to the Erp to bring Vessels up to their Gates. The Citizens enjoy great Privileges, which were granted to them by the Emperor Frederick III. in recompence for their Service, in holding out a whole year's Siege against the Duke of Burgundy, who oppos'd Herman Landgrave of Hesse, chosen Bishop of Colen, in defence of his Brother, chosen also by another Faction. Here is a fair Collegiate Church, besides other publick Buildings of good Structure.
Broel is a small pleasant Town with a strong Castle, which is the seat of the Elector when he diverts himself with Hunting in the Neighbouring Forest. It stands in the mid-way between Colen and Bonne, and 5 miles West from the Rhine.
Zons a small Town tolerably well Fortified, stands on the Rhine 8 miles West from Nuys, in a Country producing much Corn, the Sale whereof is the chief Trade of the Town. The Houses are of Brick and make a good shew.
Mulheim, a fair and large Town on the Eastern Bank of the Rhine 5 miles below Colen, stands in the Limits of Bergen, but is subject to this Elector. The Inhabitants attempted to Wall it round, and intended to make it an Imperial City, but were oppos'd in it by the Citizens of Colen, and forbid by the Emperor, who caus'd the Marquess Spinola to spoil their Out-works in the year 1614. and the next year the Inhabitants of Colen pull'd down all the new Buildings in the Town: Afterwards, during the Wars in Germany they endeavour'd it again, pretending it necessary for their Security; but it was again hinder'd, and it still remains a Dependent on Cologne.
On the East-side of the Rhine at about 20 miles distant from it, lyes a Tract of Land of about 20 miles long and 12 broad; bounded on the North by the River Lippe, that parts it from Munster, and on the South by the River Emser, which belongs to the Archbishop of Colen, and contains many large Mannors and Lordships, and these 2 Towns, viz.
Recklenhausen, a strong Town in the middle of this Territory, 35 miles North-east from Nuys. Taken in War from the Duke of Cleeve, by the Elector of Colen's Forces, A. 1343. Mortgaged in 1442. but Redeem'd 150 years after by Archbishop Salentine. Here is a Nunnery, the Abbess whereof hath power of punishing Offenders, even to Death.
Dorsten, a place very well Fortified by the Landgrave of Hesse Cassel in 1639. but taken from him two yea•s after by the Elector of Colen's Forces, after a sharp Siege of two Months. It stands on the River Lippe, 10 miles West from Recklenhausen, in the Barony thereof.
To this Electorate also belongs a large Tract of Land in Westphalia, wherein are these Towns, viz.
Arnesberg, a neat and pleasant City on the River Rihr, 50 miles from Nuys to the East, often honour'd with the Archbishop's Presence, who comes hither for the diversion of Hunting. It was formerly subject to its own Lords, and by them given to this Elector.
Werle, a pleasant Town, between the Rivers Ruhr and Lippe, in which the Elector's chief Judge Official in Westphalia Resides. It is wall'd and fortified.
Gesek, which stands near the Borders of the Bishoprick of Paderborn; it is a fortified Town and came to this Elector in 1501. was taken by the Landgrave of Hesse in 1636. but afterwards restored.

SECT. II. The Arch-bishoprick and Electorate of TRIER.

The Electorate of Trier lies between that of Cologne and the Dutchy of Juliers on the North, Lorraine and the Palatinate on the South, Luxemburg on the West, and Weteraw on the East. It is a fruitful and pleasant Country seated on both sides the River Moselle and Rhine. Its extent from South to North-east is about 70 miles, and from West to East about 60. It was made a Metropolitan See under Agilulphus, in the year 743. and the Archbishop was made an Elector in 1021. He hath also the Title of Arch-Chancellor of the Empire in France, is Temporal as well as Spiritual Lord of this Country, and hath Precedency of the Elector of Cologne. The Grandeur of this Prince was much greater when the Empire was in the House of France, than it is at present: In this Age the French have Invaded it often, and taken many of the Towns, which they held till the Peace of Munster. And both in the last War of 1675. and in this present one, they have over-run and harras'd it exceedingly. The Revenue of the Elector used to be reckon'd near One hundred thousand Pounds Sterling per Annum, but hath been much diminish'd by the War. The Chapter is compos'd of 16 Capitulary Canons who are all of Noble Extraction, and choose the Bishops always out of themselves.
The Chief Towns of this Electorate are,

Trier, Cap.

...Coblentz.

...Hermanstein.

...Meyne.

...Overweissel.

...Boppart.

...Engers.

...Sarburg.

Bern-Castle, &c.

TRIER, call'd Treves by the French, and in Latin Triviri aut Augusta Triviriorum, is seated on the River Moselle, over which it hath a fair Stone-bridge, and is distant 55 miles from Coblentz to the Southwest, 65 from Mentz to the West, and 65 from Cologn to the South. It is a large City and of very great Antiquity, but was often ruin'd by the Huns, Vandals, Goths and French. It was afterwards Imperial and Free, but hath been subject to its Archbishop ever since 1568. when it was surpriz'd by the Archbishop James III. A University was establish'd here in 1472. which is in a flourishing State and well fill'd with Students. Here are 4 Collegiate and 5 Parish Churches, 2 principal Abbies and several other Religious Houses. The City is fortified with strong Walls and Outworks; but was taken by the French in the last War, and recover'd from them in 1675. And in this War they put a Garrison into it in 1688. Of its Fortifications this is an exact Draught.
Coblentz, in Latin Confluentia & Confluentes, from its situation on the Confluence of the two Rivers Rhine and Moselle; stands in a pleasant and fruitful Country cover'd with Vines, at the distance of 35 miles from Mentz to the North-west, and about the same distance from Colen to the South-east. It is a large City and built in form of a Triangle, two sides whereof are secur'd by the two Rivers, and the third by strong Fortifications. It has a Bridge over the Moselle, and to guard it a Fort of 3 Bastions on the other side, and another Bridge over the Rhine to Hermanstein. This, in the time of the Romans, was the station of their first Legion. It was given to the See of Triers about 1000 years ago by King Dagobert, and was afterwards an Imperial City till 1312. when it was separated from the Jurisdiction of the Empire by Henry VII. Its situation has made it exceeding populous and of great Trade, which consists chiefly in Wine, Corn, Wood and Iron. The chief publick Buildings are, the Elector's Palace, two great Churches and some Monasteries. The private Houses are generally fair and uniform, and better built than the other Cities on the Rhine. It was first encompass'd with Walls by Arnulphus Elector of Trier in 1250. and afterwards regularly Fortified by Gaspar a Petra and other Archbishops, and is now one of the strongest Cities of Germany. Its Strength will be better seen by this Draught.
On the other side the Rhine just over against this City stands,
Hermanstein or Ehrenbreitstein, an impregnable Fort well defended by Out-works on the top of a steep rocky Hill, twice as high as Windsor-Caste, which commands the City and the two Rivers: At the foot of this Fort on the Banks of the Rhine and fronting the River, stands the Elector's Palace, which is a very noble Building. From hence is a passage to Coblentz by a long Bridge of Boats, in the middle whereof two or three are let slip to let any great Vessel pass by, which they easily fasten again.
Meyn or Meyen, on the River Nette, is 15 miles distant from Coblentz to the East: It has a Castle built in 1280. by Henry Archbishop of Trier, and the Town was wall'd round by his Successor. It gives Name to a large Territory about it, in which stands Munster a small Town, for distinction call'd Munster Meynfield.
Oberwesel stands on the west-side of the Rhine 20 miles from Coblentz to the South, and 25 from Mentz to the West. It was once on Imperial and Free City, but since the year 1312. it has been subject to the Archbishop of Trier.
Boppart is a Town and Fort seated on the Rhine, 10 miles South from Coblentz. It was also formerly an Imperial City, but given by the Emperor Henry VII. to Baldwin Archbishop of Trier, who built the Castle to secure it.
Engers, a fair Town and Fort of the Rhine, stands between Coblentz and Andernack, and gives Name to a neighbouring Territory. It has a strong Castle and a noble Bridge over the Rhine, founded by Cuno Arch-bishop of Trier, who died in 1388.
Bern-Castle is a good Town pleasantly seated upon the Moselle, and makes great quantity of Wine, which enriches the Place, and has made it Populous.
Sarburg on the River Sar, is a Town of good Strength; made so and much beautified by Vestinger their Archbishop.
Limburg stands on the River Lohn, betwixt Idestein and the County of Weilburg; it suffer'd much in the Wars between the French King and the Emperor.
Montroyal, belonging to the French, stands on the Frontiers of the Electorate, 20 miles from Triers to the North-east, and 30 from Coblentz to the South-west; It is a strong Fortress built in a Penisle made by the Rhine, which with the Citadel and Out-works, render it almost Impregnable. For more particular Information, see the Draught.
SECT. III. The Archbishoprick and Electorate of MENTZ.
The Archbishoprick of Mentz lyes on the Banks of the River Mayne, between the Electorate of Trier on the West, the Palatinate on South, Franconia on the East, and the VVeteraw on the North. It is in length from North-west to South-east about 50 miles, and about 20 in breadth; but besides this, the Elector hath Dominions in other Provinces. This Prince hath the Precedency of both the other Ecclesiastical Electors, is Dean of their College, and stiled Arch-Chancellor of the Empire in Germany. He is Lord of this Country, and maintains in his Court a Marshall or General, and a Chancellor: His annual Revenue is reckon'd above one hundred thousand Pounds. To all which he is Elected by the Chapter of 24 Capitulary Canons, who are all of noble Extraction. This See was formerly Episcopal only and Suffragan to that of VVorms, till 745. it was erected into an Archbishoprick. This is a pleasant fruitful Country, very populous, and hath in it these Towns of note, viz.

Mentz, Capit.

...Bingen.

...Aschaffenburg.

...Koningstein.

...VVeisbaden.

...Elfield.

Reineck, Coun.

Lohr, County.

Other Towns subject to this Elector.

in Hesse,
...Fritzlar,

...Ommenburg.

...Neustat.

in Thuringen
...Erfurt.

...Heyligenstadt

...Duderstadt.

MENTZ, call'd by the Germans Mayntz, by the French Mayence, in Latin Moguntia Magontiacum & Mocontiacum, is seated on the Rhine near its Confluence with the Maine, at the distance of 65 miles from Trier to the East, 32 from Coblentz to the South-east, 20 from Francfort to the West, and 50 from Spire to the North. It is a large City, well fortified and very populous. The private Buildings are not extraordinary, the Houses being old and the Streets narrow: But the publick ones, which are many Churches, the Electoral Palace, the Town-house or Guild-hall, three Castles, and a Bridge of Boats over the Rhine, are stately Structures. Here is an University which was founded in the year 800. and re-establish'd in 1482. This City claims the Invention of the Art of PRINTING, which at least was brought to perfection here by John Faust, or as others, John Guttemburg, about the year 1450. It is a place of very good Strength, which hath been much encreas'd by a Fortress built not many years since on a Hill, (wherein stands the Elector's Palace) and by the regular Fortifications that have been added by the late Archbishop, since the beginning of this present War: Of which see the Draught annex'd. This City is by the Germans pretended to be above 1300 years older than Christianity; but by others 'tis thought to have been built by Drusus, whose Tomb is still shewn here. It was sometime Imperial and Free, but subjected by its Archbishop Adolphus of Nassaw, who took it in the year 1462. and his Successors still retain the Authority. Gustavus Adelphus took it in 1631. and oblig'd the Citizens to pay 80000 Dollars as a Ransom for their Lives and Houses. And in this War it was taken by the French in the year 1688. and regain'd by the Duke of Lorrain in 1689.
Bingen is a pleasant Town seated on the Rhine, 15 miles West from Mentz. It was a Fort in the time of the Romans, and thought to be the place where Drusus died. The River Nahe, over which here is a fair Stone Bridge, runs through the Town, and empties it self into the Rhine: Here is also a Castle, which stands on a Hill and over-looks the Town. This was also formerly an Imperial City, but is now subject to the Dean and Chapter of Mentz.
Between this place and Mentz in an Island in the Rhine, stands the famous Mauss-thurn, an old Watch-Tower, said to have its name from the Mice and Rats which follow'd hither, and devour'd the covetous Archbishop of Mentz, who scoffingly call'd some poor People that begg'd at his Gate, the Rats that eat up the Corn.
Elfeld is a strong fortified Town, seated on the North side of the Rhine, 5 miles from Mentz to the West, and adorn'd with a fair Church and a high Steeple. It is the chief Town of a small Territory, extended along the Rhine 20 miles, call'd Rhingaw, a Country richly stor'd with choice Vines; wherein also stands Erbach, a stately Monastery, where lie buried many of the Counts of Nassaw and Rodesheim, a Place noted for the Growth of the best Wines in these parts.
Weisbaden stands about five or six miles North from Mentz.
Koningstein is 15 miles distant from Mentz to the North-east.
Aschaffemburg, Asc•affemburgum aut Asciburgum is a strong Town and Castle, on the Eastern Bank of the Mayn, 40 miles distant from Mentz and 20 from Francfort to the East; it is divided into the Upper and Lower Town, and is beautified with a stately Palace, lately built, wherein the Elector often resides; and hath a fair Stone-Bridge over the Mayn.
Reineck, the chief Town of a County of the same name, stands on the River Syn, 35 miles from Aschaffemburg to the West, 25 from Fuld to the South, and 8 from the Mayn to the North. This Town and County, together with that of
Lohr adjoining to it, and on the Banks of the Mayne, do also belong to this Archbishop.
Ommenburg or Amelburg, a strong Town on the River Ohrn, 5 miles distant from Marpurg in Hessen, and 45 from Francfort to the North, is the Capital of a small Territory belonging to this Elector, in which also stands Neustadt.
Freitzlar, the chief Town of another small Territory, subject to this Archbishop, is seated on the River Eder, in the Landgraviat of Hesse, about 25 miles from Ommenburg to the North-east, 10 from Waldeck to the West, and near the mid-way between Marpurg and Cassel. It hath a Castle and good Fortifications, and is esteem'd a place of as good Strength as any in these parts.
To this Electorate belongs also a small Country of 20 miles extent, call'd Eichfeld or Eschfeld, lying beyond the Weser, between the Dutchy of Brunswick on the North and the Landgraviat of Hesse on the South. In which stand Heglingenstat, built by King Dagobert; in it is a College of Jesuits, but is not otherwise considerable.
Duderstat, a small Hanse-Town, anciently subject to the Duke of Brunswick, by whom it was sold to Gerlacus Archbishop of Mentz.

CHAP. III. HESSEN, Hassia.

THE Province of Hessen lies on the North Side of the River Main, extending as far as the Weser, comprehending under this Name in general, besides the Landgraviat of the same Name, the Abbies of Fuld and Hirchsfeild, the Weteraw, in which are also compris'd several Principalities and Lord-ships, and the Landgraviat of Darmstadt, together with several Imperial Cities. The whole Country is bounded on the North by Westphalia, on the West by the Dutchy of Berg and Electorate of Trier, on the South by the Electorate of Mentz and Franconia, and on the East by the Dutchies of Weimar and Thuringen. Its utmost Extent from North to South is about 100 English Miles, and from East to West as many. The Air is healthful, the Waters wholsom, and the Soil fruitful, producing much Corn, and towards the Banks of the Rhine and Lohn Grapes; here are also large Forests, which afford store of Deer and other Game; and Mountains, wherein Mines of Copper and Lead are found. This is judged to have been the Country of the ancient Catti, mention'd by Tacitus and others.
It is divided into Hessen and Veteravia, or the Weteraw.

In Hessen are
The Langraviates of
Hesse Cassel, which lies on the Banks of the Rivers Weser, Eder and Lohn, and hath these Towns, viz.
...Cassel,

...Rodemberg,

...Homburg,

...Witzenhausen,

...Zeigenheim,

...Suntra,

...Geysmar,

...Eschwege,

...Smalcald.

Hesse Darmstadt, the Territories whereof are divided, part lying on the South side of the Main, and part between Hesse Cassel, Waldeck, Solms and the Rhine.
...Darmstadt,

...Marpurg,

...Frankenburg,

...Alsfeld,

...Giessen,

...Catzenelbogen,

...Schwalbach.

The County of Waldeck, lying East from Hesse Cassel.
...Waldeck,

...Wildungen,

...Corback,

...Eyenberg.

The Territories of the Abbies of
...Fuld,

...Hirschfeld.

...Fuld,

...Hirschfeld.

The County of Solms,
...Solms,

...Brunsfeld.

The Imperial Cities of
...Wetslar,

...Fridberg.

In the Weteraw
The County of Nassaw,
...Nassaw,

Dillemberg, C.

Sigen, C.

...Herborn,

Beilstein, C.

Dietz, C.

Hadamar, P.

Wisbaden, C.

Weilberg, C.

Idstein, C.

The County of Hanaw,
Isenberg, County

...Hanaw,

Gelnhausen, Imp

CASSEL, Cassella, aut Cassilia, olim Castellum Cattorum, & Sterdontium, the Capital City of the lower Hessen, is seated in a pleasant Plain, on the River Fuld near the Confines of the Dutchy of Brunswick, at the distance of 50 miles from Marpurg, and as many from Fuld to the North, and 40 from Paderborn to the Southeast. It is a place of good Trade for Wool and other Merchandizes, and is well fortified with Walls, Ditches, and a strong Citadel: It is the Seat of the Landgrave, whose Palace stands without the Town, and is surrounded by Bulwarks: The Family of Hesse is one of the most ancient of Germany. This House of Cassel is the Elder, and the Landgrave, with his Subjects, are of the Calvinist Religion.
Rodemburg, a fair Town, stands on the River Fulda, 30 from Cassel to the South; it is pleasantly seated, and has a Collegiate Church with a Dean and 20 Canons nobly endow'd. Near the Town is a Quarry of white Marble.
Suntra stands 12 miles East from Rodemburg.
Homburg is 25 miles distant from Cassel to the South, and 12 from Rodemburg to the West.
Zeigenheim stands 30 miles South from Cassel. It is a small but fair City, and gives Name to a County.
Geysmar, stands 12 miles from Cassel to the North.
Witzenhausen is seated on the Weser, 12 miles from Cassel to the East.
Eschwege stands also on the Weser, 20 miles above Witzenhausen, a wall'd Town, built by Charles the Great, and repair'd by Henry II.
These are all good Towns, but not particularly remarkable.
Smalcald stands in a little Territory on the East side of the River Verra, disjoyn'd from the rest of the Lands of this Prince; it is 50 miles distant from Cassel to the South-east, 30 from Hirschfeld to the East and 20 from Eysenach to the South. It is a Town of good Trade for Iron-ware, many Mines in the Neighbourhood furnishing the Inhabitants with plenty of that Metal, which they work and send abroad to foreign Parts. This place was famous in the last Age, by the assembling of the Protestant Princes here, in the Years 1530, 1531, 1535 and 1537. to make a League for the Defence of the Augsburg Confession, against the Emperor Charles V. and the Popish Princes of Germany: Which League grew so powerful, that they forced the Emperor to a Treaty, held in 1557. at Passaw, wherein Lutheranism was establish'd in several Parts of the Empire.
Marpurg, Marpurgum, Amesia, is seated on the River Lohn, in a pleasant Country, near 50 miles from Cassel to the South-west, and 40 from Francfort to the North. It was some time a free and Imperial City, afterwards subject to its own Lords, now the Chief of the Upper Hesse, and the Seat of the supreme Court of Judicature; to which Appeals are brought from both Cassal and Darmstadt. It has a strong Castle, which stands on a Hill, and is otherwise well fortified. The great Church is a stately Building, and has in it many noble Monuments, The University here is one of the most considerable in Germany.
Frankenburg, on the River Eder, 20 miles North from Marpurg, is a large Town, said to be built by Theodorick King of France, Anno 520.
Alsfeld stands 15 miles from Marpurg to the East: It is one of the ancientest Towns of Hessen, and had formerly very great Privileges, even Power over Life; but lost their Charter in an accidental Fire many years since, so that now thay have only a Memorial of it, by the chief Magistrates having a Sword born before him. The Town-house is a fair handsom Building.
Giessen is a fair Town, seated on the River Lohn, 15 miles from Marpurg to the South, and 28 from Francfurt to the North; the Royalty whereof is divided between the two Landgraves of Cassel and Darmstadt: It is defended with a strong Wall and regular Fortifications, and hath an Armory very well furnished. The Trade of this Town lies in Dressing and Selling of Cloth.
WESTLAR, an Imperial City, stands on the Borders of the County of Solms, upon the River Lohn not above 5 miles below Giessen, 18 miles South-west from Marpurg, and 26 North from Francfort. It is an old Town, and has nothing in it worth notice but the great Church. However, it is at present the Seat of the Imperial Chamber, which was removed from Spire hither in the Year 1689, by reason that that City was taken and destroy'd by the French.
FRIEDBƲRG, a Rich and Imperial City, stands 14 miles South from Wetslar, and 15 North from Francfort: It is seated at the Foot of a Ridge of Hills, call'd de Hohe, and enjoys large Privileges, granted by the Emperor Frederick II. The Mart, now held at Francfort, was before the Year 1340. held in this Town; at which time it was remov'd, at the desire of the Merchants, and this City, in lieu, hath four annual Fairs.
DARMSTADT, Darmstadium, seu Darmostadium, a considerable City, seated on the Banks of a River of the same Name, in the Country of Geraw, otherwise call'd the Landgraviate of Darmstadt, which lies on the South Side of the Main; it is defended by a strong Castle, which is the Palace of the Landgrave; and for the better Security of the Country, there are two Forts, one on the Rhine, named Markburg, and another on the Main called Russelheim. The Town is distant 10 miles from the Rhine to the East, and 15 from Francfort on the Main to the South. This House of Darmstadt by the failure of the Second House of Marpurg, succeeded to that Lordship, together with those of Giessen and Catzenelbogen, and by that means is become more considerable than the elder House of Cassel. The Landgrave usually resides at Marpurg; he is of the Lutheran Religion, as are also most of his Subjects.
The County of Catzenelbogen lies on the Banks of the Rhine, between that River and Nassaw; the Town which gives Name to the County is but small, and is seated at the distance of 10 miles from Nassaw to the West, and about 22 from Mentz to the North. The Property of this Town and County has been much disputed between the Earls of Nassaw and the Landgraves of Hesse, the former having married the Sister of the last Earl, and the latter pretending a Donation from that Earl: In 1548, the Emperor Charles V. adjudged it to the Count of Nassaw; but that Judgment was revers'd at the Treaty of Passaw, and Count William of Nassaw surrendred it to the Landgrave Philip, who paid him 600000 Crowns for it: However, the Family of Nassaw does still retain the Title of it. In the same County stand
Schwalback, famous for many Springs of Medicinal Waters in it, which are of great virtue for curing several Distempers. It is distant 10 miles from Catzenelbogen to the South, and 12 from Mentz to the North.
The Castle of Rhinfeld, which gives Name to a small County, stands on the East-side of the Rhine, 25 miles East from Catzenelbogen, and 20 South from Coblentz.
WALDECK, Valdecum, is the Capital of a small Principality, of about 20 miles extent, situate in the North part of Hesse, beyond the River Eder, and Westward of the Landgraviate of Cassel. The Country is fruitful, affording Wine as well as Corn and Pasture, besides Mines of Copper, Lead, Quicksilver, &c. The chief Town is but small, and not very considerable; it is distant 30 miles from Marpurg to the North, and 20 from Cassel to the South-west.
The other Places of Note in this County are Wildungen, a pleasant Town built upon two Hills, in the middle of which lies a very fine Garden.
Corbach, formerly a free City, wherein is held a small University. And
Eyenberg, a very strong Castle, built upon a Hill near Corback.
The Territory of the Abbey of FƲLD, call'd by some Buchem and Fagonia, is a large rich Country, lying South of Hesse, and North of Hanaw Reineck, &c. extending about 40 miles in length. The chief Town Fuld, stands upon a River of the same name 40 miles East from Marpurg, and 45 North-east from Hanaw: The Monastery is of the Benedictine Order, and one of the noblest in all Europe; it was founded in the Year 744, by S. Boniface, and endowed with great Privileges by several Emperors. The Abbot is Lord of this Town and Country, Primate of all the Abbots in Germany, a Prince of the Empire, and sits in the general Diets at the Emperor's Feet. There are many other Towns in this Territory.
The Monastery of HIRCHFELD stands on the River Fulda, at the distance of 20 miles from Fuld to the North. It is a very noble Structure, artificially built upon an Arch, supported by 16 Pillars. It was founded by Sturmius Abbot of Fulda, and a Territory of about 12 miles extent, given to it. Alcuinus, who was Tutor to Charles the Great, was Abbot of this Monastery, and lies buried in its Church. The Revenues of this Abbey have been in the Hands of the Landgrave of Hesse ever since 1606.
The WETERAW, Veteravia, is the general name of the Country, lying between Hesse on the North, the River Main on the South, the River Rhine on the West, and the County of Reineck on the East; wherein are contained the Estates of the Counts of Nassaw, Solms and Hanaw, &c. who are constant Confederates for their mutual Defence.
NASSAW, as it is now encreas'd by the accession of the Counties of Weilburg, Idstein, Wisbaden, Dillenberg, Beilstein, Geilberg, Sigen and Hadamar, is bounded on the North by Westphalia, on the East by Hesse and Solms, and on the West by Berg, Trier and the Rhine. This Country is fruitful in Corn and Pasturage, abounds with Cattle and Venison, and hath Mines of Iron, Lead and Copper. It was at first only a County, but was made a Principality by the Emperor Ferdinand II. Anno 1653, and is subject to its own Princes, a very Ancient and Honourable Family; from which descended Adolphus, chosen Emperor A. D. 1292. Engelbert, the Seventh Earl of this Family, acquir'd by Marriage the Barony of Breda, and other Estates in the Netherlands; and Henry, his Great-grandson, married Claude de Chalons, Sister and Heir to Philibert Prince of Orange, whose Son Rene, in 1530, succeeded in that Principality; which Honour hath ever since remain'd in this Family. These Princes have in all Ages been celebrated for their Bravery, especially in the last, when they so zealously defended the Belgic States, and by their Courage and Wisdom rescued them from the Spanish Cruelty, and acquired the Dignity of Hereditary Stadtholder, and Captain General of all the Forces of the Ʋnited Netherlands: Which great Honours being possess'd by William of Nassaw, Prince of Orange, King Charles I. chose him for a Husband to his eldest Daughter Elizabeth; by whom he had issue William Henry, who married Mary the eldest Niece of Charles II. our late Queen of blessed Memory, and is at present King of Great Britain.
NASSAW, Nassovia, that gives name to this Principality, is a small Town and Castle seated on the River Lohn, 8 miles from the Rhine to the East, 12 from Coblentz to the South-east, and 35 from Francfort to the North-west. It was the usual Seat of the first Branch of this Illustrious Family.
Dillemberg, stands on the River Dilla, 40 miles from Nassaw to the North-east, and 16 from Marpurg to the West. It is a Town of good Trade, and hath two annual Fairs. Here is a Castle standing on the top of a Hill, which commands the Neighbourhood, and was the Seat of a Branch of the Family of Nassaw, who had the Title of Counts of Dillemberg: In it is a large Armory, very compleatly furnish'd.
Sigen, on the River Siega, 18 miles from Dillemberg, is seated on the top of a rocky Hill, and defended with a strong Wall and regular Fortifications, and gives Name to a County. Near the Town is a Mine of Iron.
Herborn stands upon the River Dilla, but five miles South from Dillemberg; it is a City of pretty good Trade in Woollen Cloths, and hath an University of good Repute, endow'd with the Lands of some dissolved Monasteries, and hath bred some considerable Scholars; particularly J. Piscator, H. Martinius, G. Passor and H. Alstedius. This City is wall'd round and has a Castle.
Beilstein, gives Name to a County, which was the Inheritance of a younger Branch of the Family of Nassaw. It is an old Town seated among rocky Hills, at the distance of 10 miles from Herborn to the South, and hath a Castle and a fair Church.
Dietz, the Capital of another County, is pleasantly seated upon the River Lohn, 10 miles from Nassaw to the West; it is wall'd, and hath two Towers standing upon two Hills in the Town.
Hademar, a small Town, the Capital of a Territory, which hath the Title of a Principality, stands upon the Lohn, at the distance of 14 miles from Coblentz to the East, and 20 from Mentz to the North.
Weilberg, which gives name to another County, stands also on the Lohn, 35 miles from Nassaw to the West.
Wisbaden, the Capital of a County also, stands five miles North from Mentz, and 20 South-east from Nassaw; it is an ancient Town, and much frequented by reason of famous Hot Baths in it, which give name to the Place.
Idstein, a Town and County, lies next to Wisbaden to the North.
The County of Isenburg lies between Solms on the West, Hanaw on the East, the Lands of the Abbey of Fuld on the North, and Nassaw on the South. It is about 20 miles in length, and 8 or 9 in breadth.
Budingen, the chief Town of it is about 30 miles North-east from Francfort. And
The Castle of Ronenburg, a noble old Fort, a few miles from Gelnhausen, was anciently the place of Residence of the Counts.
SOLMS, the Capital of another County, subject also to its own Lord, and situate on the South of Hesse Marpurg. The Town stands in the most Northern part of the County, at the distance of 15 miles from Marpurg to the South-west, and 35 from Francfort to the North. The usual Residence of the Count is in the Castle of Brunsfeld, which stands 15 miles South from Solms.
The County of HANAW is bounded on the North and East by the Territory of Fuld, and on the West by the Estates of Nassaw and the County of Isenberg: It extends from the River Main North-east, about 40 miles, and is subject to its own Earl. The chief Town
Hanaw, Hanovia, stands upon the River Kuntz, near the Banks of the Main, 15 miles East from Francfort, 12 from Aschaffemburg to the North-west, and 40 from Marpurg to the South: It is a fair, well-built Town, neat and uniform; and a Place of Trade, and much resorted to by Foreign Merchants; insomuch that the French and Dutch have Churches here. It is now defended by strong Walls and modern Fortifications, but was twice taken, viz. in 1631 by the Swedes, and in 1658 by the Germans, after a long Siege, both times, and not without Treachery and Stratagem at last.
GELNHAƲSEN, an Imperial City, stands in the Limits of this County, on the River Kintzing, 12 miles North-east from Hanaw, 15 North from Aschaffemburg, and 20 East from Friedburg: It is now but a poor City, though very considerable, and inhabited by many Noblemen and Gentlemen before the German Wars.

CHAP. IV. FRANCONIA, Franconia.

THE Dutchy of Franconia, call'd by the Germans Frankenland, and heretofore Franconia Orientalis, one of the chief of the Ten Circles of the Empire, is bounded on the North by Thuringen and Hessen, on the South by Schwaben, on the East by the Palatinate of Bavaria, and on the West by that of the Rhine; extending from North to South about 130 miles, and from East to West 140. The Soil of it in some parts mountainous and barren, but in others very fruitful in Corn, Wine, Liquorish, Saffron and Fruits: Here are also several Forests, well stockt with Game, and Rivers abounding in Fish. This Province is suppos'd to have been the ancient Seat of the Franks or French, from whence they set forth under Pharamond, to their Conquest of Gaul; and also that the famous Salique Law was made upon the Banks of the River Sala: Besides which, the chief Rivers here are the Main, the Tauber, the Kednitz, the Pegnitz and the Altmutz. Several Sovereign Princes have the Dominion of this Country, which is the reason that several Religions are predominant in several parts; but the Lutherans are most numerous.
Franconia hath these States and Chief Towns, viz.

The Bishopricks
of Wurtzburg,
...Wurtzburg,

...Ochsenfurt,

...Konigshoven.

...Bischoffsheim,

of Bamberg,
...Bamberg,

...Cronach,

...Weisman,

...Forcheim,

of Aichstat.
...Aichstat,

...Ornbaw.

The Estate of the Master of the Teutonick Order,
...Margenthem.

The Marquisates of
...Culembach,
...Culembach,

...Weisinstat,

...Bertrut.

...Ohnspach,
...Ohnspach,

...Kregling.

The Counties of
...Holach,

...Cash

...Schwartzburg,

...Sensheim,

...Limpurg,

...Lewenstein,

...Wertheim,

...Erpach,

...Hennelberg,

...Coburg.

The Imperial Cities of
...Francfort,

...Nuremburg,

...Rotemburg,

...Schieveinfurt,

...Weinsheim,

...Weissemburg.

WƲRTZBƲRG, Herbipolis, is the Capital of Franconia, and seated on the Banks of the River Main, at the distance of 80 miles from Mentz, and 60 from Francfurt to the East, 80 from Cassel to the South, 40 from Bamberg to the West, and 30 from Rotemburg to the North. The City is divided into two parts by the River, which are again joyn'd by a fair Bridge; besides the Main several little Brooks run through the Streets, and pleasantly water the Town. It is adorn'd with an University, and one of the richest and most magnificent Hospitals of Europe, And defended by a strong Castle, built on a Hill, which is joyned to the Town by a Wall, flanked with four Bastions. This was formerly an Imperial City, but has been subjected to the Bishop. To S. Burcard the first Bishop of this See, the Emperor Charlemaign granted the Country of Francia Orientalis, upon which account his Successors assumed the Title of Duke of Franconia. This Prelate is very Potent, being Secular as well as Spiritual Lord of 400 Villages and Towns, and able to raise an Army of 15000 Men. He judges Causes, and Condemns Criminals, in token whereof at Solemn occasions, he hath a naked Sword born before him.
FRANCFƲRT, Francofurtum aut Francofordia, being the Foord of the Franks, and heretofore Helenopolis: Now commonly for distinction call'd Francofurtum ad Maenum. It is seated on both sides the Main, if the Suburb of Saxenhausen on the Southside of the River be consider'd as part of it, that as well as the City being strongly Fortified with Bastions, large Moats, Counterscarps, and other Outworks; and also joined to the City by a Bridge, which is a noble Work, being built of Stone, and composed of many Arches. It is a large, populous, rich and well traded City, Imperial and Free, and govern'd by its own Counsels, Senators and Sheriffs, chosen by the Trades-men. In the Church of S. Bartholomew here the Election of the Emperor is made, being expresly so ordained in the Golden Bull, or Grand Charter of Germany, made by the Emperor Charles IV. Which Golden Bull is also it self laid up in the Town-house of this City. Here is also an Imperial Palace, call'd the Braunsfeld, a Mansion-house of the Knights of the Tutonick Order, which with the Port, the Fortress, the Bridge between two Towers, and several Houses of Noblemen, together with the Bridge over the Main above-mention'd, are good Ornaments to the Town. The private Houses are of Wood Plaister'd and Painted over. Francfort is conveniently seated for Trade; for the Main receives several smaller Rivers, and it self falls into the Rhine about 20 miles from hence, whereby Goods are easily brought to it, especially at the two great Annual Marts in April and September, when great quantities of all sorts of Commodities, especially Books, brought from all parts of Europe, are Vended here, to the great profit of the Town. The Inhabitants are generally of the Lutheran Religion, and were the first that demanded the free exercise of it; the refusal of which in the year 1525 made them revolt against the Clergy and Senate, and chuse themselves new Magistrates: And in 1530, the Ausburg Confession was Established; however other Religions are tolerated; and among the rest, the Jews, who are pretty numerous here, but confin'd to live in one Street, which is lock'd up every Night. A Monument is to be seen here of a very Notorious Fact that three of that Nation were guilty of, for which they were tied up in Sacks and thrown into the Main, and a Memorial of there lewd Action painted over one of the Gates. Francfort stands in the Latitude of 50 deg. and in the Longitude of 28 deg. 10 min.
Aschaffemburg on the South-side of the Main, with the Counties of Reineck and Lohn, are reckon'd part of this Circle, but belonging to the Arch-bishop of Mentz. They are already spoken of in the account of that Electorate.
NƲREMBERG, or NƲRNBERG, Nuremberga, aut Noricorum Mons, one of the largest, richest and most populous Cities of Garmany, stands at the bottom of a Hill near the confluence of the Rivers Rednitz and Pegnitz, at the distance of 55 miles from Wurtzburg to the East, 40 from Bamberg to the South, as many from Ingolstadt to the North, and 50 from Ratisbon to the North-west. It is a very considerable place on account of its two annual Fairs, its Traffick and Manufactures; the Clocks and small Wares made here being especially admired. The Houses are all built of Free-stone and four or five Stories high, the Streets are large, and the publick Places very regular: The Town-house, or Guild-hall is very magnificent: Here are eleven Stone-bridges over the Pegnitz, whereof that of one Arch is most artificially and admirably built. The other publick Works are 12 Fountaines, 26 Wells, and a large Arsenal, containing 300 pieces of Canon, and Arms for 1500 men, a strong Castle, and 6 Gates, each defended with a large Tower. In this City the Emperor is obliged to hold the first Dyet after his Coronation, and for that purpose, the Regalia or Imperial Ornaments, viz. the Imperial Crown of Charlemaigne, the Dalmatica or Mantle of the same Charles, together with his Cloak, Sword, Belt, Gloves, &c. are here laid up. It was made an Imperial City by the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, and purchas'd its Liberty of Frederick I. Elector of Brandenburg; and it is now Govern'd by its own Senators. The Inhabitants are of the Lutheran Religion, the Roman Catholicks having only one Church. A Peace was concluded here between the Princes of Germany in year 1649,
The City of Nuremberg hath a Territory belonging to it of about 20 miles extent, wherein about 15 miles to the South stands
Altorf, a small Town, but made considerable by an University in it, first established in 1578, but improv'd in 1623, and does now contain at least 200 Students.
BAMBERG, Bamberga, aut Babenberga, took its Name from Baba, the Daughter of the Emperor Otho. It stands about 40 miles from Wurtzburg to the East, and 30 from Nuremberg to the North, in a Country abounding with rich Fruits and Plants, and is Water'd by the River Rednitz, which a little below falls into the Main. It was formerly Imperial and Free, but now subject to its Bishop, who depends on no Metropolitan but the Pope, and is not only Lord of this See (which is 60 miles in length, and thirty in breadth) but also of divers Mannors in Carinthia, and the Castles of Cronach and Forkheim, besides several Royalties elsewhere, whereby he has the Honour to have four of the Electors, viz. The King of Bohemia, and the Electors of Bavaria, Saxony and Brandenburg, his Dependents for some parts of their Estates. The Bishop's Palace here is a splendid Building, and adorn'd with fair Gardens and Orchards: The Cathedral Church has a high Steeple with four Spires, which with the Jesuits Church and the Castle, are worth a Travellers View.
MERGENTHEIM, or MARIENDAL, the Capital of the small Territory of the Great Master of the Teutonick Order, and the usual place of his Residence, is a small Town, and not very considerable. It stands upon the River Golach 20 miles South-west from Wurtzburg.
OHNSPACH, or ANSPACH, Onoldium, and Onspachium, is the Capital of a Marquisate of pretty large extent, which belongs to a Prince of the Family of Brandenburgh; it is Fortified, and hath a Castle, situate about 25 miles from Nuremberg to the West, and 20 from Rotemburg to the East,
The Bishoprick of AICHSTAT lyes between the Marquisate of Ohnspach and the Burgraviate of Nuremberg on the North, the County of Oeting and Dutchy of Neuburg on the South, and the Palatinate of Bavaria on the East. It extends about 30 miles from East to West and in some parts of it 15 or 16, in others not above 7 or 8 from North to South. The Bishop is Temporal as well as Spiritual Lord of it; and the chief City whence it is nam'd stands upon the River Altmul, 25 miles South from Nuremberg, and 8 or 9 North from the Danube.
ROTEMBƲRG, Rotemburgum, a Free Imperial City, seated in the limits of the Marquisate of Ohnspach upon the River Tauber, 20 miles from that Town, 30 from Nuremberg to the West, and 40 from Wurtzburg to the South. It obtained its Freedom of the Emperor Frederick I. in the Year 1163.
WINTZHEIM, another small Imperial City, stands also in this Marquisate upon the River Aisch, about 16 miles North from Rotemburg, and 20 Northwest from Ohnspach.
The County of HOLACH lies next to Ohnspach to the South-west,
The Barony of LIMPƲRG adjoins to Holach on the South.
The small County of LEWNSTEIN, lies also South from Holach, and West from Limpurg.
The County of WERTHEIM lies on both sides the Main, West from the Bishoprick of Wurtzburg; 'tis of about 20 miles extent, of a square form, and a very fruitful Country, affording besides Corn and Pasture, very good Wines, the making whereof is the Trade of the chief Town, which stands on the Banks of the Main, where it receives the Tauber, and is distant 20 miles from Wurtsburg to the West.
ERPACH, the Capital of another County, which lies on the South side of the Main, stands 30 miles South-east from Francfort, and 20 North from Heidelberg; it is a place of no great Trade, nor considerable, but for giving Title to a Count of the Empire.
SCHWEINFƲRT, an Imperial Free City, is seated on the Main, 30 miles from Wurtsburg to the North, and near as many from Bamberg to the East. This City suffer'd much in the German Wars, having been taken by the Swedes, and afterwards seiz'd by the Marquess of Brandenburg, in 1553, but being besieg'd the next Year, he plunder'd and deserted it.
The Marquisate of CƲLEMBƲRG is reckon'd part of this Circle, tho' it be subject to the Duke of Brandenburg. It is a Country of 50 miles in length from North to South, and 30 miles in breadth, lying next the Bishoprick of Bamberg to the East: The chief Town, which gives name to the County, is seated on the Main, 25 miles East from Bamberg.
The RIVER MAIN arises in two Springs in Mount Fichtelberg on the East-side of this Marquisate, which unite near the Town of Cullembech, and flowing Westward, receives the Rednitz, Warres, and other Rivers; and in a Serpentine course runs through the middle of Franconia, passing by Schweinfurt, Wurtzburg, Wertheim, Aschaffemburg and Francfurt; and falls into the Rhine a little above Mentz, after a course of 110 miles: Its breadth at Francfort is reckon'd by English Travellers about half as much as the Thames at London.

CHAP. V. The PALATINATE of the RHINE, Palatinus Rheni, aut Palatinus Inferior; in the German Language, Pfaltz auf Rhein, or Nider Pfaltz.

THE Palatinate of the Rhine, called the Lower Palatinate, to distinguish it from that of Bavaria, is bounded on the North by the Bishoprick of Mentz, on the South by Alsatia, on the East by Franconia and Wertemburg, and one the West by Lorrain and the Bishoprick or Triers: It extends from East to West almost 100 English Mi•es, and from North to South abut 60. The Air is Healthful, and the Soil Fruitful, the Country abounding in delicious Wine besides Corn and Pasture: Here are also some Mines of Agate and Jasper, and even Gold is found among the Sands of the Rhine, whereof particular Ducats are Coin'd. Besides the Rhine, which by passing through it gives name to this Region, the Necker, a very considerable River, waters the Eastern part of it, and having passed by Heidelberg, falls into the Rhine at Manheim; and several other smaller Rivers are found in several parts of it.
The Dominions of this Elector were much larger before Frederick V. (who Married the Daughter of King James I.) was dispossessed of them by the Emperor in 1620, and his Estates together with the Electoral Dignity, given to the Duke of Bavaria: Afterwards at the Treaty of Munster in 1648, he obtained this part to be restored, but that of the upper Palatinate he could not recover, nor prevail •hat the Duke of Bavaria should be divested of the Electoral Dignity; however to make him some amends, he was chosen a-new, and made an Eighth in the Electoral Colledge, with the Title of Elector Palatine of the Rhine.
The chief Cities and Towns in this Electorate, are

Heidelberg, Capital.

...Manheim,

...Frankendal,

...Openheim,

...Creutznack,

...Altzheim,

...Keiserlauter,

...Newstadt,

...Bacharach.

HEIDELBERG, Heidelberga aut Edelberga, the Capital of this Palatinate, is seated on the Banks of the River Neckar in a fruitful Plain at the foot of a Mountain near the Frontiers of Schwaben; at the distance of 40 miles from Francfurt to the South, 60 from Wurtzburg to the South-west, 10 from Manheim to the East, and 12 from Spire to the North-east. It is a large and flourishing City (at least was so before the French destroy'd it) populous and rich; it was much enlarged and a Suburb call'd Bergheimb added to it in 1392. It is beautified with a magnificent Castle, wherein the Elector keeps his Court, and adorn'd with an University, planted by Rupert Prince Elector Palatine, in 1387. which hath been happy in the Education of the famous Philologer Janus Gruterus, and other considerable Men. The Church of the Holy Ghost was remarkable for the famous Library kept in it, which in the Wars with Spain was transported to Rome for preservation. The Wine of this place is valued, and the great Tun is much talked of, for it's stupendious Bulk, containing no less then 200 Tun of English measure: It stands (if the French have not destroy'd it) near the Palace. This City was part of the Bishoprick of Worms before the year 1225. at which time Lewis the first Elector Palatine was invested with the Castle and old Town, to which his Successors added the New Suburb, as is already said. It has suffer'd much by Wars, having been laid wast by the Spaniards and others during the German Wars in the last Century; but more so in this present War, for the French have twice taken it, viz. in 1683 and 1692 and most barbarously burnt and destroy'd it.
Manheim, seated at the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar 10 miles West from Heidelberg, was strongly fortified by Frederick IV. in 1606. but taken and dismantled by the the Spaniards in 1622. afterwards refortified by the last Elector, and had besides the Citadel several Outworks and a small Citadel on the Rhine, when the French attack'd and took it in 1688, who being forc'd to abandon it in 1689. destroyed all the Fortifications.
Frankendal is seated on the West-side of the Rhine, 10 miles from Manheim, and 20 from Heidelberg to the West. It was at first a Monastry only, but encreased to a fair City, and fortified by Frederick III. Elector Palatine in 1571. afterwards taken by the Spaniards and kept by them till the Westphalian Treaty, when it was restored to the Elector. It hath suffer'd the same Fate as Manheim in this War, having been taken and burnt by the French in 1689.
Altzheim or Altzey, the Capital of one of the Bailiwicks, or Ampten, and the ancient Seat of the Elector, stands 25 miles North-west from Frankendal: It is a good Town, with a Castle and Walls.
Creutznach is a good Town, with a Castle seated upon a high Hill, and nam'd Kansemberg: The Town stands upon the River Nahe, about 18 miles Northwest from Altzheim. The jurisdiction of it is divided between this Elector, the Marquess of Baden and the Prince of Simmeren.
The Castle of Eberemberg, remarkable for the Siege it sustain'd in 1692. stands on the Nahe, not above 8 or 9 miles East from Creutznach.
Keiser-lautern, call'd Caseloutre by the French, stands upon the Rivre Lautern near the Borders of the Dutchy of Zwibrukken, 30 miles South from Creutznach and 35 East from Manheim. It is a small City formerly Imperial, but exempted in 1402. and now subject to this Elector.
SECT. II. The Bishopricks of SPIRE and WORMS, the Dutchy of ZWEYBRUGGEN, or DEUX PONTS, with the other smaller States that make up the rest of the Circle of the LOWER RHINE.
The Bishoprick of Spire lies on both sides the Rhine, in length from East to West about 40 miles, and in breadth about 15; it is surrounded by the Dominions of the Elector Palatine, and lies next to the Bailiwick of Heidelberg to the South.
The Bishoprick of Worms lies also on both sides the Rhine, and encompass'd by the Palatinate; it is small, being hardly 20 miles in length, and about 7 or 8 in breadth. It lies North-east from Heidelberg.
The Dutchy of Zwibrukken is strecht out from North-east to South-west about 40 miles in length, and in breadth in some places 25, in others not above 8 or 9. It lies next to the Palatinate to the South, and is possess'd by a Prince of that Family.
The other Estates, together with the chief Towns, will be seen in this Table, viz.

The Bishopricks of
...Spire,
...Spire,

...Philipsburg,

...Worms,
...Worms,

...Ladenburg.

The Dutchies of
...Zwybrukken,
...Zwybruk,

...Landsperg.

...Simmeren,
...Simmeren,

...Spanheim.

...Birckenfeld,
...Birckenfeld,

...Lautereck,
...Lautereck. Belonging to several Branches of the Palatine Family.

The Counties of
...Linange,

...Rheingravestein,

...Reipoltzkirk.

SPIRE, Spira, aut Noviomagus, Nemetum, & Nemetas, is a large rich and populous City, seated on the East side of the Rhine, where it receives the small River Sparbach, being almost in the midst between Mentz to the North, and Strasburg to the South, at the distance of about 50 miles from both, and about 12 or 14 from Heidelberg to the South-west. Tho' it be the Seat of the Bishop, it is not subject to him, but Imperial and Free, under the Protection of the Elector Palatine. The Cathedral Church is a very stately Building, and hath in it the Monuments of no less than eight Emperors that have been buried there; but the private Buildings are not very good. In this City the Imperial Chamber or supreme Court of Judicature in Germany, was establish'd in the Year 1530, and was constantly held here till the Year 1689, when it was removed to Wetslar in Hesse, because this place was taken by the French, and most inhumanely burnt and destroy'd. The Chamber was the chief support of the Town; so that at present it must needs be in a very ordinary condition.
Philipsburg, Philipoburgum, formerly a small Town call'd Ʋdensheim, which was encompass'd with Walls, by Gelherd Bishop of Spire, in 1343, is now one of the strongest Towns of Germany. In 1615, Philip Christopher of ••etern Bishop of Spire and Trier, repair'd and fortified it with seven royal Bastions, and gave it its present name. The Castle was founded in 1513, by George Count Palatine of the Rhine and Bishop of Spire, repair'd in 1570 by Bishop Marquard de Hatstein, and is a stately Building. The Town is seated in a Plain inviron'd with Marshes, which adds much to its Strength; however, it was often taken and regain'd in the German Wars, viz. by the Swedes, in 1634 by Famine; by the Austrian Troops the Year after, by Stratagem; and by the French by Storm, in 1644, which last bestowed great Cost in fortifying it, adding many Out-works according to the modern manner, (whereof see the Draught annexed) and kept it till 1676, when the Germans regain'd it after a Siege of four Months, and it was granted to them by the Peace of Nimeguen. But they have lost it again in this War, which was began with the Siege of this place by the Dauphin of France, to whom it was surrender'd on the first of November, 1688. It stands on the East side of the Rhine, 20 miles from Heidelberg, and 8 or 9 from Spire to the South. WORMS, Vormaciae, olim Borbetomagus, & Vangiones, is seated on the Western bank of the Rhine, 25 miles North from Spire, and as many South from Mentz. It was formerly a Metropolitan See, but afterwards reduc'd to an Episcopal, under the Arch-bishop of Mentz. It was made a free and imperial City by the Emperor Henry II. and is now govern'd by its own Magistrates under the Protection of the Elector Palatine. It was often taken and retaken during the German Wars, and was taken and burnt by the barbarous French in the Year, 1689.
ZWEIBRƲKKEN, in French DEƲXPONTS, lat. Bipontium, so call'd from Bridges over two small Rivers whereon it stands, at the distance of 45 miles from Worms and 50 from Spires to the West, as many from Trier to the East, and 40 from Mentz to the South. It is a small but well built City, formerly fenced with a good Fort, which is now demolish'd, the whole Town having suffer'd much during the German War.
SIMMEREN, Simmera, the chief Town of the lower County of Sponheim, and the Capital of a Territory formerly govern'd by its own Prince, but now subject to the Elector Palatine, with the Title of a Dutchy, is seated at the distance of 30 miles from Mentz. to the West, and 25 from Coblentz to the South.
BIRKENFELD, Bircofelda, is a small Town, with the Title of a Principality and Dutchy, seated in the upper County of Sponheim and District of Hunsdruck near the River Nab, at the distance of 28 miles from Trier to the South-east, and 30 from Zweibrukken to the North-east. It is wall'd and hath a Castle, wherein died Charles III. Duke of Lorrain, on the 17th Sept. 1675.
LAƲTERACH, is seated on the River Lauter, 40 miles West from Worms, and 18 from Zweibrukken.
LENINGEN, the Capital of the County of Linage, stands 18 miles North-west from Spire, and about 20 South-west from Worms.
RHINGRAVESTEIN, stands between Creutznach and Eberemburg, 35 miles almost North-west from Worms.
REIPOLSKIRK is 30 miles West from Worms, and the Capital of another small County.

CHAP. VI. ALSATIA, Alsatia, in High-Dutch Elsalz.

ALSATIA is the Country of the ancient Triboces, and one of the four Landgraviates of the Empire, but is at present intirely subject to the French, having been conquer'd by the present King. It is seated on the Banks of the Rhine, and bounded on the West by that River, the Dutchy of Wirtemburg, and some other parts of Schwaben; on the East by a Ridge of Mountains that divide it from Lorrain, on the North by the Palatinate, and on the South by Swisserland. Its Extent is from North to South 100 English miles, and from East to West, comprehending Brisgaw, 40 miles, but in the other parts not above 25. The Soil is fruitful in Corn, Pasture, Wine and Fruits; and in the Mountains Mines of Copper and Lead. Alsatia was erected into a Landgraviate by the Emperor Otho III. and sometime possess'd by the House of Austria; but, being conquer'd by the French, was granted to them by the Pyrenean Treaty in 1659. It is divided into the Upper and Lower, to which is usually added Suntgaw, Brisgow and Ortnow. The whole contains 46 Towns and 50 Castles, besides a great many Villages. The chief whereof are these, viz.

In the Lower Alsace,
...Strasburg,

Savern or Zabern,

...Haguenaw,

...Fort Louis,

...Weissemburg,

...Landaw,

...Roschein,

...Schlestad.

In the Upper Alsace.
...Colmar,

...Munster,

...Murbach.

In Suntgaw,
Pfirt or Ferette,

...Mulhausen,

...Befort,

...Huningen.

In Brisgaw,
...Brisac,

...Friburg,

To which may be added,
The County of Montbeliart.

STRASBƲRG, Argentoratum, Argentina, aut etiam Strasburgum, stands upon the Confluence of the two Rivers Ill and Breusch, which a little below falls into the Rhine, and is distant 50 miles for Spire, and 24 from Haguenaw to the South, 30 from Brisac, and 55 from Basil to the North, and about 70 from Nancy in Lorrain to the East. It is seated in the midst of a pleasant Plain, and is a large, populous and rich City; formerly Imperial, and govern'd by its own Magistrates, from the time of its embracing the Reformation, Anno, 1529, till the French took it in 1682, who having alter'd the Government, has much injur'd the Trade of it. It is an Episcopal See under the Metropolitan of Mentz, and adorn'd with many stately Buildings, among which the Town-house, Arsenal and Cathedral Church, are chiefly remarkable; especially the last, the Tower whereof is built in form of a Pyramid 574 Foot high; and hath in it a Clock exceedingly admir'd for its curious Workmanship, shewing not only the Hour of the Day, but the course of the Sun, Moon, and all the other Planets. Here is an University, which was founded in the Year, 1538, and a considerable Library. Tho' the French be Masters, the Inhabitants are generally of the Lutheran Religion. The old Wall and Fortifications were formerly of no great Strength; but since the French have had it, they have made it very strong by the addition of many new Works and a Cittadel, with a great Horn-work for its defence on that end of the Town next the Rhine, together with Forts in some Islands in the Rhine, which secure the Bridge and command the Passage of the River; all which will be better understood by this Draught.
Zabern, Saverne or Elsaszabern, is next to Strasburg, the chief Town of the Lower Alsace; it is situate 15 miles Northwest from Strasburg, and defended by a strong Castle at the top of a Rock, wherein formerly the Bishops of Strasburg kept a Court of Judicature.
Haguenaw, an Imperial City before the French Wars, is seated between the two Rivers Motter and Sorna, about 6 miles from the Rhine to the West, and 14 from Strasburg to the North, and encompass'd with thick Woods, and at some distance with Corn-fields and fruitful Vineyards. It was formerly the Seat of the supreme Court of Judicature for Alsace, and had in it a fair Palace of the Emperors, built by Frederick Barbarossa, in 1164. It was taken by the French, and granted to them by the Treaty of Munster, and hath been strongly fortified.
Fort Louis stands in an Island of the Rhine, almost over against Baden, and about 10 miles East from Haguenaw. It is small but very strong, and was built by the present French King, for the better security of this part of the Country, and the command of the River. The Form of it is fully seen in this Draught.
Weissenburg was also an Imperial City, and much honoured by Dagobert King of France, who presented them with a large Crown of Silver: But now subject to the French. It is situate on the River Lutra, about 10 miles West from the Rhine, 16 North from Haguenaw, and 25 South-west from Spire.
Landaw is seated on the Borders of the Palatinate, 10 miles North from Weissemburg, and 15 South-west from Spire. It was granted to the French by the Treaty of Munster, and is now in their Possession, and very strongly fortified, as may be seen by this Plan of it.
In 1688, the French lodged here the Plunder they took out of most of the Towns of the Palatinate, which by accidental Fire was all destroy'd the next Year.
Roschein stands 12 miles West from Strasburg.
Schlestadt, formerly a Free and Imperial City, but taken by the French, and granted to them by the Westphalian Peace, is seated 20 miles from Strasburg to the South, and 12 from Colmar to the North. The Fortifications were demolish'd by the Confederates, in 1673, but since rebuilt by the French, and is now a place of good Strength.
Colmar, once an Imperial and very populous City, but by the German Civil War and the French Armies almost quite depopulated, stands in a plain, fruitful Country, about 8 miles West of Brisac, and 30 South from Strasburg.
Pfirt, called Ferette by the French, is a small City, but the Capital of Suntgow; it stands near the source of the River Ill, 30 miles South from Colmar, and about 10 West from Basil. It was granted to the French by the Treaty of Westphalia, and is now possessed by them. About 10 or 12 miles from hence to the North-east, and not above 2 or 3 from Basil stands
Huningen, a very strong Fortress, built not many Years since by the French King; it stands on the West side of the Rhine, about 2 or 3 miles North of Basil, and 20 South of Brisac: It is large enough to hold a Garrison of 4 or 5000 Men, and is compos'd of five Bastions; and hath a Magazine vaulted with Brick so strongly, that it is proof against Bombs; besides the Tenailes, Ravelines, Counterscarp and double Ditch, there are two large Horn-works to the North and South, and a third on the other side of the River; and from the Ramparts there go Vaults to the Horn-works, for conveying Men to them. The Plan of these Works we have here added, for the Reader's better Information.
Mulhausen, once an Imperial City, but now subject to the French, stands 12 miles North from Pfirt, and near 20 South form Colmar.
Befort or Beford, formerly the Capital of this County, but was almost ruin'd by the Wars, and is now a small City of no great note. It stands 20 miles West from Pfirt, and as many from Mulhausen.
Adjoyning to Alsace, and Westward of Suntgaw, lies the County of
MONTBELLART, belonging to the Dukes of Wurtemburg: The Capital City is of the same name, seated in a very pleasant and wholsom Air, 40 miles South of Colmar, and 35 from Basil, and about 8 or 9 from Befort to the West. The Streets are large, the Houses well built of Stone, and without the Gates are delicate Gardens.
Brisac, the Capital of the Brisgaw, stands on the East side of the Rhine, 30 miles South from Strasburg, 24 North from Basil, and 8 West from Colmar. It stands on the Banks of the River, and is joyn'd to two or three Islands in it, by Bridges, which, as well as the Town, are fortified. It was heretofore an Imperial City, but was subjected to the House of Austria about 1330, and taken by the French in 1638. To whom it was granted by the Westphalian Treaty, and ever since been subject, and is now but a mean poor Town, tho' it be the Seat of their Parliament or supreme Court of Judicature for these parts. It stands upon a Hill, in a plain level Country, and hath a fair Stone-Bridge over the Rhine, and a strong Citadel standing in an Island on the West side of the Town. The Fortifications are exceeding strong; on the West side are eight Bastions, fill'd with Earth and faced with Brick, and before every Courtine stands a Half-Moon; the Ditch is broad and the Counterscarp, Cover'd Way and Palisado are well executed. The Fortifications are a League in Circumference, and the Place capable of garrisoning 9 or 10000 Men. This is a Draught of it, exactly taken.
Friburg stands 10 miles East from Brisac, in a fertile Plain, at the foot of the Mountains, and on the small River Treisseim, that falls into the Rhine; it is a good City, and the Seat of an University, which was first establish'd by Albert Archduke of Austria, in 1450. It was thrice taken by the Swedes, in 1632, 1634, and 1638. And twice by the French, viz. 1671, and 1677, and finally surrendred to them by the Treaty of Nimeguen, and since very strongly fortified, as the Reader may see by this Draught.

CHAP. VII. SCHWABEN, Suevia.

THE Dutchy of Schwaben, or Swabia, in French Sonabe, had its Latin Name Suevia, from some Tribes of the Suevi, that came down from the Northern parts against Julius Caesar, whose Posterity setling in this and the neighbouring Countries, in time established a powerful State, which was govern'd for some Ages by a Duke, who was at first elected by the People, but about the beginning of the XIIth Age 'twas made Hereditary to Frederick the Ancient; in whose Family it continued till about the Year 1268, when Conradine dying without Issue, this Country was divided between several Princes, Bishops, Free Cities, who have all Sovereign Power in their respective Dominions, viz. the Bishops of Augsburg and Constance, the Duke of Wirtemberg and the Princes of Hohenzolleren and Furstemburg, 8 Counts, 5 Barons, the Grand Master of Malta, 18 Abbots, the Provost Velenhausen, and 34 Imperial Cities.
The extent of Schwaben, from North to South is about 110 miles, and from East to West 130, and its bounds are, the Palatinate and Franconia on the North, the County of Tirol and Swisserland on the South, Alsatia on the West, and Bavaria on the East. The Air of it is healthy, and the Soil is generally fruitful; for though some parts be mountainous and woody, yet do the Hills afford Mines of Copper, Silver and other Metals, and the Forests much Pine and Fir-Timber, besides great store of Game: And the other parts of the Country yield great store of Corn, Wine and Flax. The chief River is the Danube, which hath its Source here, in the Principality of Furstemburg, as hath also the Neckar near the same place. The chief Imployment of the Inhabitants is making of Linnen Cloath, whereof they vend great quantities to other Nations.
Schwaben hath these States and chief Towns.

The Dutchy of Wurtemburg, wherein these Towns are of the chiefest note.
Stutgard, Capit.

Tubingen, Imp.

Reutling, Imp.

Eslingen, Imp.

...Hohendwil

...Schorndorf,

Loebenstein, County,

Ebersteinstein, Count.

The Marquisate of Baden,
Baden, Marquisate,

Durlach, Marquisate.

...Pfortzheim,

...Badenweiller.

The Bishoprick of Augsburg,
Augsburg, Imp.

...Dillingen,

...Fuessen.

In the Bishoprick of Constance,
Constance, Imp.

...Mersburg.

The Abbies and Cities of
...Kempten,

...Buchaw,

...Lindaw,

The Principalities of
...Furstemberg,

...Hohenzolleren.

The County of
...Oeting.

The small Counties of
...Papenheim,

...Koningseck,

...Hohenrichberg,

...Waldburg.

Imperial Cities not mention'd above,
...Ʋlm,

...Hailbron,

...Memminghen,

...Nordlingen,

...Rotwell,

...Ravensburg,

...Isne,

...Ʋberlingen,

...Bibrac,

Lentkirk, with near twenty more.

Subject to the House of Austria,
The Marquisate of
...Burgaw.

The small Counties of
...Rhinfelden,

...Nellenburg.

The Counties of
...Offemburg,

...Gengenbach,

...Altorf,

...Lauffenburg,

...Guntzburg,

...Hohenburg,

...Waldshut,

...Zeel.

The Marquisate of BADEN is extended along the Eastern Banks of the Rhine, over against Alsace, beginning a little below Philipsburg on the North, and passing on in a narrow Tract to the height of Basil in the South, except where it is disjoined by the intervention of Brisgaw. It is an exceeding fertil and populous Province, producing Corn, Wine, Hemp, Fish, Fowl and Venison, in great plenty: It is also so remarkable for Baths and mineral Waters, that the chief Town and the whole Country hath its name from them. The Dominion is divided between two Princes of the same Family, who are distinguished by the Names of the chief Town of the two Marquisates, Baden and Durlach, whereof Baden of Baden is a Roman Catholick, and Baden Durlach a Lutheran.
BADEN, Bada, aut Thermes Inferiores, stands over a gainst Haguenaw, a German League or 4 English miles East from the Rhine, 50 from Brisac to the North, and 40 from Heidelberg to the South, upon a hilly craggy Ground, so that the Streets lie very uneven. It is famous and exceedingly resorted unto for its hot Baths, whereof there are many spring in the Town, and are reckon'd sovereign Remedies for the Gout, Cramp, &c. These bringing Nobility and Gentry from all parts of Germany, create a great Trade to the Town, which would be otherwise not very considerable. The Marquess hath his Palace here; and, for the security of the Town, there is a good Fortress built on an adjacent Hill,
DƲRLACH, Durlacum, stands 12 miles North from Baden, 30 South from Heidelberg, and a league East from the Rhine. It is seated on the Banks of the River Pfintz, at the foot of a Mountain, on the top whereof stands a strong Tower. The Streets are strait, and the Buildings fair, and the Marquess's Palace remarkably Magnificent, far exceeding that of Baden, and even capable of receiving a great Prince's Retinue.
Pfortzheim, is a small City seated on the River Ens, where it receives the Nagold, about 12 miles East from Durlach, between pleasant Meadows and Corn-fields on one side, and Mountains and Woods on the other. It was formerly subject to the Duke of Wurtemburg, but now belongs to the Marquess of Durlach.
Badenweiller, the chief City of that part of Baden that lies South of Brisgaw, stands about a League from the Rhine, and in the mid-way between Brisac to the North, and Basil to the South, about 15 miles from each. It is famous, and much frequented for its hot Baths, which are of great Virtue, but not quite so valuable as those of Baden above-mentioned.
Offenburg, a small imperial City, under the Protection of the Arch-Duke of Austria, is the Capital of the Country of Ortnaw, and seated on the small River Kintzig, which falls into the Rhine near Strasburg, 20 miles South from Baden, 30 North from Brisac, and 9 or 10 West from Strasburg.
Gengenback another small Imperial City, stands on the same River, 5 or 6 miles above Offenburg.
The Dutchy of WƲRTEMBƲRG, Wurtemburgensis Ducatus, lies next to Baden to the Eastward, between the Palatinate on the North, the Principality of Furstemburg on the South, extending near 70 miles both in length and breadth. The Country is exceeding Fertil, consisting of pleasant Meadows, Mountains containeing rich Mines, and Forests abounding with variety of Game: A great number of small Rivers water it, which with the Lakes are fill'd with Fish. It is very populous and has no less then 63 Cities, 158 good Towns, and a great number of Villages. It was errected into a Dutchy by the Emperor Maximilian in the year 1495. in favour of Eberhard Count of Bentelsbach, in whose Family it hath continued, and is now possessed by Eberhard Lewis, a powerful and wealthy Prince, and of the Lutheran Religion.
STƲTGARD, Stutgartia, the Metropolis of this Dutchy, and the usual place of Residence of this Duke, is seated near the Neckar, 40 miles East from Baden, 50 South from Heidelberg, and as many North from the Danube. It is a fair City, and much resorted to for its famous natural Baths, which cure several Diseases. The Prince's Palace is a stately Castle, and adorn'd with exceeding pleasant Gardens, wherein are rows of Orange-Trees, fine Grotto's and curious Water-works.
Tubingen, Tubinga, is a fair and well-built City, water'd by the Neckar, and adorn'd with an University, founded in the year, 1477. by Count Eberhard abovemention'd. It stands about 20 miles South from Stutgard, near 30 North from the Danube, and 50 East from Offenburg, and boasts of having been the Seat of the Emperor Caracalla, who they say had a stately Palace, and entertain'd the Germans with publick Games in this place.
Hohendwill, a strong impregnable Castle, stands on the top of an inaccessible Hill, near the Banks of the Rhine, and belongs to the Duke of Wurtemburg.
Retling, or Reutlingen, is an imperial City under the protection of the Duke of Wurtemburg, being seated on the Confines of his Country, 12 miles South-east from Tubingen. It stands in a Plain at the foot of Mount Alchamack, but affords nothing very remarkable.
Eslingen, another small imperial City under the Protection of this Prince, stands upon the Neckar, 8 or 9 miles East from Stutgard.
HAILBRON, Hailbruna Fons Salutis, stands also in the limits of this Dutchy, but is a free imperial City, having been made so by the Emperor Frederick III. in the year 1240. It had its Name from the famous Medicinal Springs found in it, and is a goodly City seated on the Neckar (over which it hath a Stone-Bridge) in a pleasant and fruitful Country, at the distance of 28 miles from Stutgard to the North, and 26 from Heidelburg to the South-east.
The Country of OETING lyes next to Wurtemburg to the East, betwen the Marquisate of Onspach on the North, and the Danube on the South. The extent of it is about 20 miles. The chief Town, call'd in Latin Oeni pontes, is but small and not very considerable; it stands 70 miles East from Stutgard, 20 South from Onspach, and 12 North from the Danube,
Nordlingen a small Imperial City, stands in this County, on the small River Eger, 10 miles North from the Danube, 6 or 7 South-west from Oeting, and 35 North-east from Ʋlm. It was made Free in the year 1251, and for its security is in League with the Switzers. Two notable Battles were sought near it between the Sweeds and Germans; the first in 1634, wherein the Sweeds were Defeated, and the latter in 1645, when they and the French were Victors over the Bavarians.
The Bishoprick of AƲGSBƲRG lies on the South-side of the Danube, extended in a narrow Tract (of 7 or 8 miles in breadth, a good part of it, and the rest not above 15 or 20) from the banks of that River to the County of Tyrol, above 80 miles, and bounded on the East by the Dutchy of Bavaria. It is a fruitful pleasant Country, and subject to its Bishop, who is a Prince of the Empire.
AƲGSBƲRGH or AƲSBƲRGH, call'd in Latin, Augusta Vindelicorum, from Augustus Caesar, who conquer'd these parts and Planted a Roman Colony here among the Vindelici, stands near the Confines of Bavaria, on the Confluence of the two Rivers Lech and Werdach, which fall into the Danube 25 miles below it; and is distant 8• miles from Stutgard to the East, 35 from Munich to the North-west, and 65 from Ratisbon to the West. It is a very ancient and very considerable City, reckon'd the Capital of Schwaben, made Imperial by the Emperor Frederick I. in 1162, and bought its entire Freedom of Conrad Duke of Schwaben, in 1266. It is large and populous, the Streets broad, the Market-places spacious, and the Houses tho' built but with Wood and Clay, are fair and handsome; the Cathedral Church, the Town-hall and the Conduits, are stately and magnificent. Here are two Arsenals well furnish'd with Arms and Ammunition, publick Granaries full of Corn, and Hospitals well maintained. The Inhabitants are much enriched by Trade; and the Works of the Gold-smiths and other Artificers of this Place, are Transported to many parts of Europe. The Noble Family of the Fuggers, Lords of the adjacent Country, have fair Palaces here; a great Hospital built by them is the most remarkable part of this City; it contains 106 Houses in four Streets built cross-ways, inhabited by poor People, who have yearly Pensions allow'd them.
Augsburg is famous for the many Imperial Diets that have been holden in it, but especially for the Lutheran Confession of Faith, call'd Augustan from its having been first promulgated here, at the Diet held by the Emperor Charles V. on that occasion, in the year 1530. Joseph King of Hungary, Son to his present Imperial Majesty, was here chosen and crown'd King of the Romans, in January 1689.
The Marquisate of BƲRGAW, subject to the House of Austria, lies on the West of Ausburg, and South of the Danube, extended about 30 miles in length and breadth. The chief Town stands 8 or 9 miles South from the Danube, 24 West from Augsburg, and 12 East from Ʋlm.
ƲLM, Ʋlma, is a very ancient, large and imperial City standing on the Danube, which here receives the Iler, and begins to be Navigable, 30 miles distant from Ausburg to the West, 50 from Stutgard to the East, and 80 from Wurtzburg to the South It was wall'd in the Year 1300, and made Imperial and Free by Lewis of Bavaria in 1346. Soon after the Citizens purchased the County of Helfenstein, the County of Albeg, and the Town and Castle of Gieslingen, so that they are Lords of a Country of 20 miles in length and 12 in breadth. The City is govern'd by a Senate of 41, and is strongly fortified. It is a rich and populous Place and hath a good Trade, consisting chiefly in Linnen Cloth. The Cathedral Church is a very noble Building, exceeding any of Germany, except that of Strasburg; it's said the building of it employ'd a great number of Workmen for 111 Years; it has five Spires of great heighth, and within it an Organ so very remarkable as to have merited a Description of it in Print by two Learned Men. It was finish'd in the Year 1599, after 35 years Labour, and is 93 Foot high and 28 broad; it has 16 pair of Bellows, and the largest Pipe is 13 Inches diameter. Here are also many other stately Edifices, among which the Stadt-house is chiefly remarkable. The Reformation was receiv'd here in 1529, and the Inhabitants are mostly Lutherans.
BIBRACH, an ancient Imperial City, is seated in a pleasant and fruitful Valley surrounded with fair Meadows, but some of 'em boggy and overflow'd in Winter, 20 miles from Ʋlm to the South-west, not above 10 from the Danube, and 40 from Constance to the North-east: It was made Free very long since, even in the Year 800, as 'tis said. Here is a natural Bath, to which great numbers of the neighbouring Gentry resort.
BƲCHAW, is also a small Imperial City, but chiefly remarkable for its Monastery, the Abbot whereof is one of the Sovereign Princes of Schwaben. It stands about seven miles East from Bibrach, and as many South from the Danube.
MEMINGEN, a free imperial City also, stands on the River Iler, 30 miles South from Ʋlm, and 20 North from Kempten: It is a large place and of good Trade, which consists chiefly in making and vending Paper. It is also strong, having the natural Fortification of a Marsh on one side, and the artificial one of a good Wall on t'other.
LEƲTKIRK, a small Imperial City, stands 12 miles South from Memingen upon the Road to Italy, which makes it pretty much frequented. The Inhabitants have a good Trade for Linnen Cloth, which they make in great quantities.
RAVENSPƲRG, or GRAVENSPƲRG, was anciently a fair Village, but wall'd and made a City in the Year 1100, and afterwards made Imperial and endow'd with Privileges. It has a fair Town-house, and the Churches are well built. It stands upon a small River that falls into the Lake of Constance, 15 miles West from Lentkirk, and about 20 South from Buchaw.
KEMPTEN, Campodunum, Campidona & Drusomagus, is one of the ancientest Cities in Germany, and was sometime the Seat of the Dukes of Schwaben, at present famous for its Monastery founded by Hildegard Daughter to the Duke of Schwaben, and Wife to Charles the Great; the Abbot whereof is a Prince of the Empire and Lord of the adjacent Territory, and formerly of this City, till the Inhabitants purchas'd their Liberty: The Emperor Frederick III. made it Imperial, and granted the Citizens many Privileges. The Trade of the Place is Weaving and Whitning Linnen Cloth; it lies upon the Road to Italy, by which also the Inhabitants make good advantage. The Reformation was receiv'd here in 1530, and in 1633 the City taken and plunder'd by the Imperialists. It stands upon the River Iler 16 miles East from Leutkirk, 45 from Ʋlm, and 15 from Memingen to the South.
Altorf, which stands two miles from Ravenspurg, is an ancient Town, at present belonging to the House of Austria; a Lieutenant or High Commissioner of Suevia resides here, who in the Emperor's name keeps a Court of Judicature to hear and determine all Causes brought from the Imperial Cities in Schwaben. The famous Family of the Guelphs us'd to be buried here.
LINDAW, at first a Monastery built in 810, which was in time encreased to a City and subject to the Abbess, and after to the Duke of Schawben, but hath since obtained its Liberty and Privileges from Rudolf I. Frederick III. and Sigismund, and is now an Imperial City. It stands on the borders of the County of Tyrol 30 miles East from Kempten, and on the North side of the Lake of Constance, part of the City being built on an Island in it, and the other part surrounded with pleasant Meadows and sweet Springs.
Isne stands in the midway between Kempten and Lindaw; Wangen 10 miles South from Lindaw, and Buchorn upon the Lake of Constance 12 miles West of Lindaw, are all three Imperial Cities. As is also
ƲBERLINGEN, which stands also upon the Lake of Constance 30 miles North-west from Lindaw, 50 South-west from Ʋlm, and 23 from Buchaw, 30 East from Furstemburg, and 10 North from Constance. It is a fair City built on a high Rock, and encompass'd with Vineyards and Orchards, and hath a good Haven, whence are sent out Barges laden with Wine and Fruits, which they carry to Constance, and other Cities upon the Lake; by which the Inhabitants are enriched, being also very industrious and frugal. Here is an Hospital richly endowed and several good publick Buildings; anciently the Dukes Schwaben have resided here. In the neighbouring Vineyards springs a mineral Water of great Virtue.
CONSTANCE, call'd in High-Dutch COSTNITZ, or COSTANTZ, Constantia, Constanza, the Metropolis of the Hegow or Lower Schwaben, had its name, as 'tis said, from Constantius Chlorus Father of Constantine the Great, who had his Winter station here. It stands on the South-side of the Lake of Constance or Boden Zee, where the River Rhine issues out of it at the distance of 60 miles from Ʋlm to the South-west, 70 from Basil to the East, and 30 from Appenzel to the North. It was taken by Attila the Hunn, and afterwards possessed by the Kings of France, by whom the Bishoprick of Windisch was removed hither in the year 594, and the City was enlarged, and so fortified before 938, that it withstood a great Army of Hungarian Savages that then over-run this Country. It is Imperial, but not perfectly Free, for Charles V. subjected it to the Austrian Family for refusing the Terms concerning Religion tendred to them, and the Emperor still maintains a Governor and Garison here, under the Title of Protector. However, the City enjoys many Privileges, and is a populous and rich Place, and hath a considerable Trade by means of the Lake. It is also well built and strongly fortified; the Churches are very magnificent, particularly the Cathedral of St. Stephen; also the Exchange, Town-house, Markets, Bridges, and other publick Buildings are very stately: As is likewise the Bishop's Palace that stands in the Suburb of Petershanfen, which was fortified in 1635, when the Swedes attempted to besiege the City.
This City was made memorable by a general Council held in it by the procurement of the Emperor Sigismund in the Year 1414, to remove a Schism in the Romish Church upon Three Popes pretending to the Infallibility; all which Three were deposed, and a new one (Martin V.) chosen by this Council. They likewise condemned the Doctrines of John Wickliff, John Huss and Jerom of Prague, causing the Bones of Wickliff to be digg'd up and burnt; and notwithstanding a safe Conduct granted by the Emperor to John Huss he was condemned and burnt by them, as was also Jerom of Prague. This Council lasted four years, held 45 Sessions, and ended April 12. 1418. during all which time there are said to have been in this City, 4 Patriarchs, 29 Cardinals, 346 Arch-bishops and Bishops, 564 Abbots and Doctors, and 10000 secular Princes and Noblemen. Also 1600 Barbers, 320 Musicians, and (the Account is very particular) 450 Harlots.
The Bishoprick of CONSTANCE, lies along the Banks of the Lake and the Borders of Swisserland, among the Allies whereof it is commonly reckon'd. The Bishop is a Count of the Empire, Lord of above 1000 Castles and Villages, and is stiled Baron of Richenaw; he was also formerly Soveraign of Constance.
The principality of FƲRSTEMBƲRG, Fustembergicus Principatus, is extended in a narrow Tract about 70 miles in length, on both sides the Danube, which River hath its Source within its Limits. The chief Town of the same name stands on the South-side of the Danube 30 miles North-east from Constance, 20 North from Schaffhausen on the Rhine, and 35 West from Brisac. It is subject to its own Prince, who is a Count of the Empire, and of an illustrious Family, which hath produc'd divers great Persons; particularly Cardinal William Egon Count of Furstemburg and Bishop of Strasburg, whose pretensions to the Arch-bishoprick of Cologn (already mention'd) gave occasion to the breaking out of this presant War.
The famous Hercynain Wood or Black Forest extended thus far, wherein stands Tone Eschingen a small Village, near which the River Danube hath its first Rise.
ROTWEL, a small Imperial City, is seated on the Neckar but 10 miles from the head of that River, and is 15 miles distant from Furstemburg to the North, and 20 from Tubingen to the South, It is the Seat of a Chamber or Court of Justice for the whole Dutchy, first erected in the year 1147. by Conrad III. Duke of Schawben. This City was taken by the French in 1643. but restor'd at the Treaty of Munster.
The principality or County HOHENZOLLEREN is a narrow Tract of Land lying East and West about 35 miles in length, tho' not above 5 in breadth, between the Dutchy of Wurtemburg and the River Danube. The chief Town of the same name stands about 20 miles from Rotwel to the North-east, and 12 from Tubingen to the South.
The County of KONINGSECK lies on the East of Furstemburg.
The Barony of WALDBƲRG is about 30 miles in length, and 10 or 12 in breadth, and lies between the County of Koningseck on the West, the Lands of the Abbots of Buchaw on the North, and Kempten on the West.
Hohenrechspurg County lies on the East-side of the Dutchy of Wurtemburg.
Rheinfelden, the Capital of a small County, stands on the South-side of the Rhine near the Borders of Swisserland, and about 10 miles distant from Basil to the East.

CHAP. VIII. The Circle of BAVARIA.

THE Circle of Bavaria is bounded on the North by the Marquisate of Culembach and some part of Bohemia, on the South by the County of Tyrol, Bishoprick of Brixen and Dutchy of Carinthia, on the East by Bohemia and Austria, and on the West by Schawben. Its extent from North to South is about 200 miles, and from East to West 120. The Air is healthy; the Soil produces Corn, Wine and Pasture; but the Country is much taken up in Forests and Mountains; the former whereof yield much Venison, and the latter Mines of Copper and some Silver, also Quarries of a sort of Marble. The River Danube runs through it, dividing the Palatinate from the Dutchy of Bavaria; the Leck runs along the West-side of the Dutchy of Bavaria, dividing it from the Bishoprick of Augsburg; and the Inn passes through it, from South-west to North-east and falls into the Danube: These, together with the Amber, the Iler, the Seltz, the Altmul, the Nab and the Regen, are the chief Rivers of this Province.
Besides the Dominions of the Elector of Bavaria, there are compris'd in this Circle several Sovereignties, as the Archbishoprick of Saltzburg, the Bishopricks of Ratisbon, Passaw and Freisingen, the Dutchy of Newburg, the Landgraviate of Leuchtemburg, the Territory of the City of Ratisbon, and several Imperial Cities; which are more particularly set forth in this Table.

The Dominions of the Duke of Bavaria are divided into
The Dutchy of Bavaria, which lies on the South-side of the Danube, and hath these Towns of chiefest note,
...Munich,

...Ingolstadt,

...Landschut,

...Straubingen,

...Donawert,

...Burkhansen.

Nort-Gow, or the Palatinate, call'd the Upper or Bavarian, to distinguish it from that of the Rhine, in which stand
...Amberg,

...Newmarckt,

...Chamb,

...Sultzbach,

...Leuchtenbu•g,

...Waltmunchen.

The Arch-bishoprick of Saltzburg lies on the South of Bavaria, wherein are these Towns of greatest note,
...Saltzburg,

...Lauffen,

...Windischmatray.

...Ditmaning.

The Bishoprick of Ratisbon lies on the Banks of the Danube,
...Ratisbon.

The Bishoprick of Passaw lies also on the Danube, next the Borders of Austria.
...Passaw.

The Bishoprick of Freisinghen lies in the Dutchy of Bavaria,
...Freisinghen,

...Werdenfels.

The Dutchy of Neuburg lies partly on the Banks of the Danube, and part between the Palatinate and the Bishoprick of Ratisbon.
...Neuburg,

...Laugingen,

...Hochstat.

BAVARIA, call'd Bayern by the Germans, is part of the Rhaetia Vindilicia & Noricum of the Ancients; and took its name Boiaria (corrupted into Bavaria) from the Boij a warlike People, that came from Gallia Celtica and settled here about 470 years after Christ, being govern'd by their proper Kings at first, and Dukes afterwards, to the time of Charles the Great, who, conquering Tassilo, made himself Master of the Country and erected it into a Kingdom, in which State it lasted for about 100 years, when Lodowick, their King, dying without Issue, the Bavarians chose Arnolph, a Descendent from Charlemaign, to be their Governor; who Contented himself with the Title of Duke, as all the Princes of it have since done; among whom, Maximilian was the first that had the Electoral Dignity, which was conferr'd on him, together with the Lower Palatinate, by the Emperor Fardinand II. A. D. 1623. in reward for the Service he did him in his War against Frederick V. Elector Palatine, chosen King of Bohemia.
The present Duke and Elector of Bavaria, Maximilian-Emanuel, is also Governor of the Spanish Netherlands; he was born in 1662. succeeded his Father in 1679. and in 1685 married Anna-Maria-Josepha, the Emperor's Daughter by his first Wife Margaret of Spain, by whom he hath a young Son now living; which Son is next the Issue of the present King, Heir to the Crown of Spain.
The Country abounds with Forests, which are fill'd with very large Deer, wild Boars, Bears and other Venison. Great number of Swine are fed here, which the Peasants make their chief Livelihood.
The most considerable Cities and Towns are these,
MƲNICH, or MƲNCHEN according to the pronunciation of the Inhabitants, call'd in Latin Monachium, is the Metropolis of Bavaria and the Seat of the Duke: It stands on the River Iler, 70 miles from Ʋlm to the East, 40 from Ingolstadt to the South, 60 from Inspruck to the North, and 100 from Lintz in Austria to the West, and is esteem'd one of the most pleasant, rich and populous Cities of Germany. The Buildings are fair and uniform, and the Streets broad and even. The Elector's Palace is a most magnificent Structure, the Apartments whereof are adorn'd with exceeding rich Furniture, the stately Galleries with curious Painting and Marble Statues, and the Duke's Closet and Library fill'd with curious Rarities and choice Books; and the spacious Gardens are made pleasant by delightful Walks, Fountains and Grotto's. The Jesuits Church and College is a stately Building; it was founded by William Duke of Bavaria about the year 1600. and is the usual burial Place of the Dukes. The great Church Munich, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is also a very sine Building, and hath two Towers of 333 foot high. Here are also other Churches and publick Buildings worth a Stranger's notice. Two great Fairs held yearly here, contribute much to the enriching of the Inhabitants. This City was built in 962 and wall'd round in 1156. Gustavus Adolphus took it in 1632.
Ingolstadt, Ingolstadium, Aureapolis, stands on the North-side of the Danube, over which it hath a fair Bridge, 40 miles North from Munchen, 12 miles East from Neuburg, and 30 West from Ratisbon. It is a fair well-built Place, seated in a pleasant fruitful Country, and adorn'd with an University which enjoys great Priviledges, and had the honour to educate the great Cardinal Bellarmine, It was first made a City by the Emperor Lewis IV. and is fortified with a very strong Castle and good Walls, by which means it was able to resist a very notable Siege of the Protestants in 1546. and another of Gustavus Adolphus in 1632.
Landshut is seated on the River Iler, 30 miles Northeast from Munchen, and 30 South from Ratisbon: The Duke's Lieutenant in the Lower Bavaria commonly resides here. It is a handsom well-built City, and adorn'd with a stately Palace of the Elector; and a Church which for the heighth of its Tower, is thought to exceed any in Germany.
Straubingen stands about 25 or 26 miles North from Landshut on the Bank of the Danube, over which River it hath a Bridge.
Amberg, the Metropolis of the Upper Palatinate is seated on the River Wils, 30 miles from Ratisbon to the North, and 40 from Nuremburg to the East. It enjoys great Priviledges, given by the Emperor Robert, and is a place esteem'd most considerable for Strength of any in the higher Germany. The Inhabitants have a good Trade in Iron and other Metals, that are dug out of the neighbouring Mountains. This City was purchas'd of the Duke of Schawben in 1266. by the Elector Palatine, from whom it was taken, together with all this Palatinate, by the Emperor Ferdinand in 1623. as we have already related.
Newmarckt is a fair City, standing on the Banks of the River Sultz, 30 miles North from Ingolstadt, and 25 South from Amberg. It has been an Imperial City, but was depriv'd of its Priviledges, and now subject to the Duke of Bavaria. The Country about is pleasant and is call'd the Territory of Neumarckt, tho' but little of it belongs to the City. The Trade of the Place consists chiefly in Iron.
Chamb, a small City, seated on the Rivers Champ and Regen, 20 miles from Neumarckt to the East. It was formerly a Marquisate, but now subject to the Duke of Bavaria.
Sultzbach, is a small City seated on the top of a Hill, 5 miles from Amberg to the North-west, which with the County of it was formerly govern'd by an Earl of its own, but has, at several times, been subject to the Duke of Bavaria and Duke of Newburg, a Branch of which last Family does still reside in the stately Palace here.
Leuchtenberg, a Castle, seated about 20 miles North-east from Amberg, gives name to a small Landgraviate which was formerly subject to its own Lord, but now to the Duke of Bavaria,
RATISBON, call'd in Dutch REGENSBƲRG, Lat. Ratisbona, olim Reginum, aut Castra Regina, heretofore the Seat of the Kings, and afterwards of the Dukes of Bavaria, is seated on the Danube, where it receives the Regen, which running through the Town, gives it its Dutch name; it is distant 60 miles from Munich to the North, near 70 from Passaw to the West, as many from Augsburg to the North-east and, 25 from Amberg to the South. It is a fair large and populous City, the Houses neat, and the Streets large. The Cathedral Church is a fine old Building, as is the Castle wherein the Imperial Diets are commonly held: The Chamber in which they assemble, is a large stately Room hung with Tapestry; the Emperor's Throne is cover'd with Cloth of Gold, the Seats of the Electors with Cloth of Silver, and the rest with Velvet, Sattin, Silks, &c. according to the different Qualities. Here is a Stone-bridge over the Danube, which is a noble Building; it is 1091 foot long, 32 foot broad, has 15 large Arches, supported by Pillars and strengthen'd by Buttresses, and hath 3 Towers built upon it; this Bridge was finish'd in the year, 1156. Ratisbon is an Imperial City, and the See of a Bishop, who is Lord of the adjacent Territory. It is fortified with good Walls, Bulwarks and Trenches.
PASSAW, Passavia aut Patavia, olim Batava Castra, stands on both sides of the Danube, where it receives the Inn on one side, and the Iltz on the other at the distance of 65 miles from Ratisbon to the East and not above 10 from the Borders of Austria. It is a large City, Imperial and Free, but under the protection of its Bishop, who is a Prince of the Empire. The Rivers above-mentioned divide it into three parts, viz. Passaw its self, which stands on the South-side of the Danube, and the West-side of the Inn; Innstadt, on the other side of the Inn; and Ilstadt, on the other side the Danube, and on the Banks of the Iltz. The private Buildings here are of Wood, but the Churches are fair and stately, especially the Cathedral, which is dedicated to S. Stephen. The Bishop's Palace and the Castle on a Mountain near Ilstadt, are handsom Buildings. This City is very strong, being fenced on all sides with Rocks and Rivers, and hath been made famous by a Peace concluded in it in 1552. between the Emperor Charles V. and the Protestant Princes, by which the Lutherans were granted the free Exercise of their Religion.
The Bishop is Lord of a Country of about 20 miles extent, lying on the North-side of the Danube, between the Palatinate and Austria, in which stand two strong Castles nam'd, Obernberg and Ebersberg.
NEƲBƲRG, Neoburgum aut Novoburgum, is seated on the South-side of the Danube at the distance of 45 miles from Ratisbon to the West, and 55 from Ʋlm to the East, 25 from Augsburg to the North, and 40 from Nuremburg to the South. It is a place of good Trade for Wines, and well fortified; but chiefly remarkable for being the Capital of a Dutchy, erected about 150 years ago, and given to a Branch of the Bavarian Family, whose Descendent Philip-William succeeded in the Palatinate of the Rhine, A. D. 1685. and hath been signally fortunate in an illustrious Issue; for of his twelve Children, he has married three Daughters to the present Emperor, King of Spain and King of Portugal, and a fourth to the Prince of Poland; his eldest Son, the present Elector Palatine, married the Emperor's Daughter; his second Son is Grand Master of the Teutonick Order, his third Son married the Princess Radzeville, the Marquess of Brandenburg's Widow, his fourth Son is Dean of Augsburg and President of the Chapter of Constance, and his fifth Son is Bishop of Breslaw. A stately Palace, built in this City by Otto-Henry its Duke, soon after the Erection of the Dutchy, is the usual Seat of this Prince. The extent of his Country is not large; it runs along the Banks of the Danube about 40 miles, but is very narrow. In the extream West part of is stands
Laugingen, a strong regular fortified Town belonging to the Duke. It was the Birth place of the famous Albertus Magnus: The great Church is a fine Building, cover'd with Copper, and has a Tower 300 foot high. Here is also a Castle and a Bridge over the Danube.
Hochstadt, which stands on the Danube not many miles East from Laugingen, a well fortified Place with a strong Castle, is also under the Duke of Neuburg, but claim'd by the Bishop of Bamberg.
Donawert or Thonawert, formerly an Imperial City, stands in the confines of this Dutchy, on the Northern Banks of the Danube, about 15 or 16 miles West from Neuburg; it is on the Road to Augsburg, and therefore pretty much frequented by Travellers; here is a strong Castle, which is nam'd Schellenberg. This City was divested of its Liberty about the beginning of this Age for adhering to the Reformed Religion, and is now subject to the Duke of Bavaria.
FREISINGEN, Frisinga olim Fruxinum, is seated on the declension of a Hill in a fertil Country, near the Banks of the River Iser about 20 miles North from Munich, as many from Landshut to the South-west, and and 40 from Neuburg to the South-east. It is a very ancient City, and was made an Episcopal See in the year 716. the Bishop whereof is Lord of the adjacent Territory. This City was taken and almost intirely destroy'd by the Sweeds in 1632. but restor'd in 1639. There is another small Territory lying on the Borders of Bavaria and Tyrol, subject to this Bishop, call'd the County of Werdenfels, from its chief Town, which stands near the River Iser, 45 miles South from Munchen.
The Arch-bishoprick of SALTZBƲRG is a Country of pretty large extent, viz. 70 miles from East to West, and 50 from North to South. It is bounded on the East with Styria and the Upper Austria, on the West with the County of Tyrol, on the North with the Dutchy of Bavaria, and on the South with the Dutchy of Carinthia, and Bishoprick of Brixen. The Country abounds with Salt, Mines of Copper and Iron, and some of Silver, also great Quarries of Stone: A Mineral Water here, call'd the Gastein-bath, is famous for its Virtue in curing many Distempers. The Arch-bishop is a Prince of the Empire, by his place Legate to the See of Rome in Germany, and, in the Diet, sits on the first Bench next the Electors. He is one of the richest Prelates of Germany, and Lord of this Country; which hath its name from
Saltzburg, Salisburgum, olim Invavia, seated on the River Saltza 50 miles South from Passaw, 70 West from Munich, and 80 from Inspruch to the North-east. It is one of the fairest Cities of Germany, and very well fortified. The Cathedral Church hath been new built in 1628. and is esteem'd one of the most magnificent in Europe. The Arch-bishop's Palace is very stately; it is in a Castle nam'd Mirabel, which stands on a Hill. An University hath been establish'd here not many years since. In the Church of St. Sebastian, lies buried the famous Physician and Chymist, Theophrastus Paracelsus. The whole Town is generally well built, and the Inhabitants have a good Trade, which consists chiefly in the Salt produc'd in the neighbouring Pits. The Archiepiscopal Dignity was remov'd from the See of Passaw, and conferr'd on this by Pope Leo III. in 798. and the Bishoprick of Chiamsee incorporated with it, to enable the Bishop the better to support the Dignity. This City had the misfortune to be burnt down in the year, 1195 but it was soon rebuilt, and now, as we have said, is in a flourishing State.
The Dukedom of STYRIA, call'd in High-Dutch Steyrmarck, with the County of CILLEY, lies between Austria on the North, Carinthia and Carniola on the South, Hungary and Sclavonia on the East, and Saltzburg on the West: Its extent from East to West is about 110 miles, and from North to South in some parts 30, in others 80 miles. The Soil yields Corn, Wine, Fruits, Mines of Iron and Salt-Springs. Some part of the Country is mountainous and barren, but the Vallies afford Pasture for great Herds of Kine. The Air of the Lower Styria is somewhat unwholsom. The Disease mention'd by Travellers to be found among the People that dwell at the foot of the Alps, viz. a strange swelling under the Chin, is very frequent here, which grows incredibly large, occasion'd 'tis judg'd, by drinking the Snow-water that comes off the Mountains, which the poorer People are fain to be content with.

Styria is divided, with respect to the course of the River Mur, into the Upper, wherein are,
...Judenburg.

Bruck or Pruck.

...Lawben.

...Seckaw.

...Isenartz.

The Lower, whereof the chief Towns are,
Gracz, Capital.

...Rakelsburg.

...Pettaw.

...Marksburg.

The Earldom of Cilley lies on the Southside of the River Drave, extending to the Banks of the Save.
...Cilley.

...Rain

GRACZ, Graecium, the Capital of Styria, is a near well-built City, standing in a pleasant and fruitful Country, on the Banks of the River Mur, 65 miles South from Vienna, 25 from the Drave, and 55 fro•redge• Cilley to the North, and about 30 from the borders o•redge• Hungary to the West. It is defended by regular Fortifications, that render it all most Impregnable, and hath a stately Castle standing on a high Hill, which is a Palace of the Arch-Duke, and is adorn'd with fine Furniture, particulary a good Library, and a Repository of Rarities. The Jesuits College here is well Endowed, and hath the privilege of Conferring Degrees, which makes it be reckon'd amongst the Universities of Germany, and well fill'd with Students.
Judenburg, a handsome and well-built Town, Famous for two great Fairs for Cattle yearly held in it. The Duke of Styria has a Palace here, in which his Deputy sometimes Resides: It stands on the River Mur, 50 miles from Gracz to the West, in a very pleasant and fruitful Country.
Lawben is also on the Mur, 25 miles North-east from Judenburg: It is a neat pleasant City, and the Capital of a Barony; but was sold to the Duke of Carinthia, in 1246, and fell to the House of Austria with that Dutchy. It was Taken and Plunder'd in 1292, by the Arch-bishop of Saltzburg, then at War with the Duke of Austria.
Bruck or Pruck an den Mur, is an old Town, and has nothing considerable in it, only that the Emperor has sometimes assembled here the States of these three Dukedomes of Styria, Carinthia and Carniola. It stands on the Mur, 25 miles North-west from Gracz.
Seckaw, a small Castle on the River Gayl, 40 miles from Gracz to the West, and 60 from Stain to the South, is an Episcopal See, Erected in 1219, under the Arch-bishop of Saltzburg, who has the power of Electing and Investing, and receiving an Oath of Fealty of this Bishop; and he has no Voice in the Diet.
Eisenartz, famous for Mines and Forges of Iron, (from whence it has its Name) which employ a vast number of Labouring-men, which therefore live here and supply the Neighbouring parts with this Metal, and all Germany with Steel. They have an annual Fair for Hemp, Leather, Tallow, and all Necessaries. The Mines were discover'd in A. D. 712, and have wrought ever since without any sensible Decay. This Town stands near a little River call'd Saltza, that falls into the Ens, is distant 12 miles from Lawben to the North-west, and 24 from Judenburg to the North-east.
Rakelsburg, is a strong Town seated on the Mur, 28 miles from Gracz and 10 from Murck to the East, in a Country plentiful of all sorts of Fruit, especially Grapes. A Custom-house is kept here to receive Tolls upon Merchandize carried to and from Hungary. This Town has been a notable Bulwark against the Turks.
Pettaw stands upon the Banks of the Drave, but 10 English miles from the Borders of Sclavonia, 16 from Rakelsburg, as many from Murck to the South, and 30 from Gracz, to the South-east, altho' it be an ancient Roman Town, it is not very large nor considerable, only that it is a Bishop's See, and has been so for 1300 years. Its Bishop is under the Jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Saltzburg.
Marksburg, a well-built Town, on the Banks of the Drave, 20 miles West from Pettaw, and as many South from Gracz, formerly the Capital of a Country, till 1240, the last Count dying without Issue. It is now part of the Dominions of the Duke of Austria.
Cilley, which gives name to a Territory formerly Govern'd by its own Earls, but now subject to the House of Austria, and united to the Dutchy of Styria, is seated on the Banks of the River Soana, which a little below falls into the Save, at the distance of 8 miles from the Confines of Carniola to the North, 25 from the Drave to the South. It is a noble and ancient City and has been a place of good consideration, as appears by many Roman Monuments daily found here. It is Fortified with two strong Castles, and was strong enough to repulse the Turks, who Attacked it in 1492.
The Dukedom of CARINTHIA, call'd in High Dutch Hertzogthum Karnten, is seated between Styria and Saltzburg on the North, Carniola on the South, Styria on the East, and Tyrol on the West. Its extent from East to West is about 100 miles, from North to South about 30. It is a Mountainous Country, and of a barren Soil, and cold Air. The River Drave runs cross the Country, receiving a great many small Rivers that water several parts: Here are also many Lakes that abound with Fish.

Carinthia is divided into the Upper, wherein stand
...St. Veit.

...Villach.

And the Lower, wherein are these Towns of most remark,
...Clagenfurt.

...Gurck.

...Lavanmund.

...S. Andrews.

...Freysac,

S. VEIT, Fanum Sancti Viti, the principal Town of the Province of Carinthia, so call'd from a Saint of this name, who propagated Christianity here during the Persecution of Dioc•••n; It is seated at the Confluence of the Rivers Wilitz and Glac, in a fruitful Valley, at the distance of 80 mile• from Gracz to the West, and 50 from Ens on the Dan••e to the South; it was anciently a Bishop's See, but is •ow not at all considerable but for its Age. Near it are to be seen the Ruins of the ancient City Saal, destroy'd by Attila in 451, and in a neighbouring Field stands an old Stone-chair, in which the Dukes of Carinthia were wont to be Install'd.
Freysack is a good strong Town, seated in a fruitful Soil amidst rows of Hills and Mountains, upon the River Matnitz, 15 miles North from S. Viet, and has a strong Castle built on a Rock: This place is by some reckon'd the eldest Town in this Dukedom; it is under the Jurisdiction of the Arch-bishop of Saltzburg. In the neighbuoring Mountains were formerly found Mines of Gold, but they are now exhausted.
Villach is seated near the Drave, where it receives the Geyla, 25 miles from S. Viet to the South-west; here is a large Bridge over the Drave, which brings the Town a great Trade, by the many Passengers that Travel over it in the way from Germany to Italy.
Gurk, a City that is a Bishop's See, instituted by an Arch-bishop of Saltzburg, A. D. 1073, who reserved the right of the Election and Investiture of the Bishop to his Successors; but they have lost part of that Power, for the Emperor has now a right of chusing twice, and the Archbishop the third time, and so by turns, as the See becomes vacant: But this Bishop has no Vote in the Diet. This City stands on a River of the same name, 25 miles from Villach to the North-east, 8 from Freysack to the South, and as many from S. Viet to the North.
Lavanmynd, Lavemund, or Lavenmind, stands on the River Lauant, where it falls into the Drave, (whence it has its name) 30 miles West from Clagenfurt, and 10 miles East from the borders of Styria. It is a small City and an Episcopal See also, under the Archbishop of Saltzburg, in a pleasant Valley call'd Lavanthal, in which also stands
S. Andrews, a neat Town, and the place of Residence of the Bishop. The Town and neighbouring Country belongs to the Archbishop of Saltzburg.
Clagenfurt, the neatest Town in Carinthia, built in a square Figure, and enclos'd with a Wall; here is a handsom Piazza, in the middle of which stands a noble Fountain, over which is a Dragon and an Hercules before it carv'd in Stone. This Town is distant 10 miles from S. Veit to the North, •20 from Villach to the West, and about 6 from the Save to the South.

The County of TYREL, with the Bishoprick of BRIXEN.
TYROL is one of the largest Counties of the Empire, it's extent being 120 miles from East to West, and 60 from North to South. It is bounded by Schwaben and Bavaria on the North, the Grisons and Trent on the South, Carinthia on the East, and Switzerland on the West. The Country is very mountainous, and the Soil barren in many parts; however, the Valleys are very fruitful, and afford good Pasture. Here are divers Springs of mineral and Salt Waters, and Mines of Silver, Iron and Copper. The chief Rivers are the Eiseck or Laisock, the Inn, which crosseth this Province from South to North-east, and the Adige or Etsch, which takes its rise here, and passes through the Territories of Venice.
Tyrol is said to be the Rhaetia inferior of the Romans, and upon the decay of their Power was seized by the Princes of Bavaria, and the Governors of it were appointed by them with the Titles of Marggraves; this Marggrave was afterwards made hereditary, and a Count of the Empire, by Frederick I. about the Year 1350. The Bishoprick of Trent was added to it by Ludowick, Son to the Duke of Bavaria and Count of Tyrol, who took that Bishop Prisoner. This Ludowick dying without Issue, his Widow settled this County upon the Duke of Austria; in which Family it has ever since continued.
It is divided into

Tyrol, proper, wherein stands
Inspruck, Capit.

...Ombras,

...Tyrol,

...Hall.

The Bishoprick of Brixen.
...Brixen.

The Counties of
...Meran,

...Pludentz,

...Bregentz,

...Feldkirk,

...Montfort.

INSPRƲCH, OEnipons, is seated in a pleasant Valley, at the Foot of the Mountains of Venden, and on the Banks of the River Inn, which separates the City from its large Suburbs. It is 60 miles distance from Munchen to the South, 80 from Saltzburg to the South-west, and 70 from Trent to the North. Though it be not large, it is well built, and adorn'd with curious Fountains, spacious Market-places, and a magnificent, Castle, wherein the Arch-Dukes of Inspruck used to reside, and has since been the Seat of its Princes of the House of Austria; it is a noble Palace, furnished with a Cabinet of curious Rarities in Art and Nature, and adorn'd with pleasant Gardens. Inspruck was Wall'd by Otto the Great Count of Meran, about the year 1234, but is now destitute of that Defence. But Ombras, about an English mile distant from it, is a very strong Fort: This was the Summer Seat of the Dukes, being exceeding pleasantly situated. The Armory here is very fine; amongst the Arms and Pictures of several Princes, the Statue of Francis I. on Horse-back, representing him as he was taken Prisoner at Pavia, is to be seen in it. And in the Duke's Closet of Rarities, there is a Trunk of an Oak with a whole Deer enclosed in it.
Hall, call'd Im'thall for distinction, is seated on the River Inn 10 miles from Inspruck to the North-west, and is famous for its Salt-pits, which afford the Inhabitants a profitable Trade. The Pits are about 4 miles from the Town, where the Salt is dug up like Copper Oar, then laid to soak in great Trenches fill'd with Water, and afterwards boil'd up in great Pans here in the City, of which they have four made of Iron that are each 48 Foot long, 34 broad, and 3 deep.
BRIXEN, Brixino, stands on the bottom of Mount Brenner, upon the River Eysach, 30 miles South-east from Inspruck, and 30 from the Confines of Carinthia. It was formerly an Imperial City, but it is now the See of a Bishop, who is a Count of the Empire, and hath Jurisdiction over it. The City is small and not, very populous; it lies upon the Road to Italy, and is therefore the Station of some Merchants that hand the Commodities of that Country and Germany to and again. Here are mineral Waters of good Fame, especially one call'd the Virgin Well, which is much resorted to.
The Diocess of this Bishop is about 40 miles long, and 30 broad.
Meran, once the Capital of this County, and gave Title to an Earl, is a small City seated on the River Ersch, 40 miles South of Inspruck. Near it is
Tyrol, an ancient Castle, which gave name to the whole County. It is seated in a pleasant Country, but has nothing considerable in it.
Pludentz, stands at the foot of the Mountains upon the bank of the River Ill, about 75 miles West from Inspruck.
Bergentz stands at the East-end of the Lake of Constance, 80 miles West from Inspruck.
Montfort stands about the mid-way between Bergentz to the North, and Pludentz to the South.
Felkirk stands upon the Ill, and near the Rhine, about 12 miles West from Pludentz.
The Bishoprick of TRENT.
This Country is by some Geographers made part of Italy: But the Bishop of it being a Prince of the Empire, the Germans reckon it into the Circle of Austria. It lyes among the Alps, between the County of Tyrol on the North, the Dominions of the State of Venice on the South and East, and the Grisons on the West. The extent of it is about 70 miles from East to West, and 50 from North to South. The River Adige runs thro' it from North to South, and receives several smaller Rivers that rise in the Mountains on each side this Country. The Soil here produces Wine, Oil, Fruit and Pasture, but not much Corn.
The Chief Towns are

...Trent,

...Pozen.

TRENT, Tridentinum, is seated upon the River Adige, in a pleasant Vally, between three very high and steep Mountains 45 miles South-east from Brixen, 35 North from Verona, 30 from the Confines of the Valteline to the West, and 70 from Inspruck to the South. It is adorn'd with many stately Palaces, and several beautiful Churches, whereof the Cathedral dedicated to S. Vigil, is reckon'd a fine piece of Architecture: Its Chapter consists of Noblemen, who chuse the Bishop. Here are also a great number of Religious Houses. The Inhabitants speak both the German and Italian Tongues very perfect, and are observ'd to be exceeding Civil to Strangers, whereof a great many pass thro' this place in Travelling into Italy and Germany. It was formerly an Imperial City, but is now subject to its Bishop, on whom the Emperor Conrad II. bestowed the Sovereignty of this Territory, which had before been subject to its own Lord, under the Protection of the Duke of Bavaria. This Donation was ratified by the Emperors Frederick I. and II. and the Count of Tyrol made Protector of it. The Bishop is Suffragan to the Patriarch of Aquileia, and as we have said, a Prince of the Empire. The Council held here in the last Age, hath made this City famous: It began in the Year 1545, but was not ended till 1563, during most of which time there are said to have been in this City 7 Cardinals, 3 Patriarchs, 33 Archbishops, 235 Bishops, 7 Vicars General, and 146 Divines, besides many Ambassadors, who with their Attendants, were provided with Lodging, Victuals, and all Necessaries. This Council was Assembled by Pope Paul III. at the instance of many of the Princes of Europe, for the Reformation of the Discipline of the Church, but by the contrivance of the Pope and Cardinals, so many Italian Bishops were brought to it, that they over-rul'd the Endeavors of the rest, and permitted nothing to be Decreed but what the Pope directed, which was so notorious, that it was a common Jest, That the Holy-Ghost was sent from Rome to Trent in a Cloak-bag. And so little was done of what was expected during all this long Session, that not only the Protestants, but the Whole German and French Nations refused to receive its Decrees. This Council began on the 4th of January, 1545, and continu'd all the Reign of that Pope, who dying in 1549, it was resum'd by Pope Julius III. in 1551. He dy'd in 1555, and a War broke out in Germany, which interrupted it till Pius IV. re-assembled it on the 18th of January, 1562; from which time it continu'd till the 3d of December, 1563, when it finally broke up, after having with the utmost Partiality establish'd the Pope's Authority, and ratified the Doctrines of Purgatory, Invocation of Saints, Indulgences, &c.
Pozen, call'd by the Italians Bolzano, is seated on the Adige, 25 miles North from Trent, and near the Confines of Tyrol. It is pleasantly situated, and is a place of good Trade, especially at its four yearly Fairs, that hold 15 days each, to which great numbers of Merchants come from several parts of Germany and Italy; for whose sake great Privileges have been granted to the City. Tho' it be seated in the Diocess, this place is not subject to the Bishop of Trent, having been taken from him by the Earl of Tyrol, in 1295.

CHAP. X. The Kingdom of BOHEMIA, with the Dukedom of SILESIA and Marquisate of MORAVIA.

UNder the name of Bohemia in general are comprehended Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia, which altogether lye in form of a Lozenge, between Brandenburgh and Lusatia on the North, the Palatinate of Bavaria, with part of Saxony on the West, and Poland on the East, and extends 69 German Leagues, or 276 English miles from North to South, and 65 Leagues, or 260 miles from East to West.
Although this Kingdom be compriz'd within the compass of Germany, and the King is an Elector of the Empire, it hath several peculiar Constitutions and Customs, and a Language different from the Germans. The Kingdom is Elective; but the House of Austria, by claiming it as Hereditary, occasion'd bloody Wars in the beginning of this Age, between the Emperor Ferdinand II. and Frederick Count Palatine, who being Elected, had accepted of this Crown. But this Prince being overcome by the Emperor in the famous Battle of Prague, A. D. 1620, the Kingdom hath been ever since entirely subject to that Family.
The Reformation of Religion was begun very early here by John Husse and Jerom of Prague, and their Converts were numerous long before Calvin and Luther appear'd, whose Doctrins also being brought hither, prevail'd much, and the number of Protestants were very great; before by Persecutions and Wars, they were harrass'd and subjected to the Roman Catholicks, which Religion at present is only predominant in this Kingdom.
The ancient History of this Country is very obscure; the best account that remains is, that the People of the more Northern part came hither for a warmer Climate, and at first liv'd in a sociable Community, distributing all things in common, but differences arising, they were forc'd to Elect a Governor, who had at first the Title of a Judge only, afterwards honour'd with that of Duke, and at length King. The Succession of these Princes, as well as can be made from the imperfect Chronicles of this Nation is as follows.
A Chronological TABLE, shewing the Succession of the Dukes and Kings of Bohemia.
XVIII Dukes. Crocus the first Law-giver of Bohemia.

Began to reign. A. C. reigned years.

1 LIbyssa Daughter of Crocus, Married Primislaus, or Primishe, he founded Prague. 652 44

2 Neramislaus. 676 39

3 Mnatha. 715 15

4 Mogenius, or Doricius. 735 28

5 Weneslas, or Wenceslaus. 763 22

6 Crcezonislaus. 785 19

7 Neclan. 804 35

8 Nastritius, or Hortivilius. 823 17

9 Bozivozius, the first Christian Prince of the Bohemians. 8•6 48

10 Shirignaeus, or Epitisvenus. 904 2

11 Ʋladislaus, 906 10

12 S. Wenceslaus II. Martyr. 916 16

13 Bolislaus I. the Cruel. 932 35

14 Bolislaus II. 967 32

15 Bolislaus III. the Ruddy and the Blind. 999 13

16 Jacomir, Regent. 1012 25

17 Brezetislaus I. the Bohemian Achilles. 1037 18

18 Spigna, or Sbitignaeus. 1055 6

XXXIX Kings.

Began to reign A. D. reigned years.

19 Ʋlatislaus, or Ladislaus I. 1061 31

20 Conrad I. 1092 1

21 Brezetislaus II. 1092 7

22 Borzivogius, or Borivorius II. 1100 9

23 Suatopluok. 1109 2

24 Ladislaus II. 1111 16

25 Soleslaus, or Sobeislaus I. 1125 15

26 Ladrislaus III. 1140 35

27 Sobeslaus, or Sobierlaus II. 1174 4

28 Frederick Bedzicher. 1178 12

29 Conrad II. 1190 2

30 Wenceslaus III. 1192 1

31 Berzbeslaus Henricus. 1193 3

32 Laudislaus IV. 1196 5 Mon.

33 Primislaus, or Ottocarus I. 1199 22

34 Wenceslaus IV. the one Ey'd. 1231 24

35 Ottocarus II. 1253 25

36 Wenceslaus V. 1278 27

37 Wenceslaus VI. 1305 1

38 Rodolphus I. 1306 1

39 Henry, Deposed 1307 3

40 John of Luxemburg, 1310 36

41 Charles. 1346 32

42 Wenceslaus VII. the Idle. 1348 40

43 Sigismund. 1418 19

44 Albert. 1437 3

45 Ladislaus V. 1440 18

46 George Paderbrach. 1458 13

47 Ladislaus VI. 1471 45

48 Lewes. 1516 10

49 Ferdinand I. 1526 36

50 Maximilian. 1562 12

51 Rodolphus II. 1571 53

52 Matthias. 1608 11

53 Ferdinand II. 1617 20

54 Frederick Elector Palatine. 1619

55 Ferdinand III. 1637 about 9

56 Ferdinand IV. 1646 about 10

57 Leopoldus Ignatius, now Reigning.

BOHEMIA proper, is bounded on the East by Moravia and Silesia, on the West by Misnia and Bavaria, on the North by Lusatia, and on the South by Austria; it is almost entirely encompass'd with Mountains, out of one of which springs the River Elbe. In these Mountains there are Mines of Silver, Copper and Lead, and in them are found certain precious Stones, which the Jews send into foreign parts. The River Muldaw rises in the Mountains on the South-side, as the Elbe does in those on the North, both which join a little below Prague, and make a good Navigable Stream. Many other small Rivers water this Country. The Soil is good, affording Corn, Pasture and Saffron, and some Wine; as also abundance of Hops, whereof they make Beer that is much esteem'd. The People are generally Strong and Couragious, reckon'd strict observers of their Word, but much addicted to Robbing.
MORAVIA, call'd Morawa by the Inhabitants, and Mahern by the Germans, lies between Silesia on the North and East, Austria on the South, and Bohemia on the West. The North and West parts are woody and mountainous, but the rest is fair, champain and good Soil, yielding much Corn, and on the South part Wine. Out of the Earth is dug a sort of Myrrh and Frankincense in great pieces. The Pastures are fill'd with Oxen, Horses, Sheep and Goats, and the Woods with Hares, Foxes, Wolves and Bevers. Here are many Pits of standing Waters of a poysonous and pestilential Quality, which hurt the Vines and Fruits, and make the People subject to epidemical Diseases: But there are other Waters which make amends, having the virtue of curing many Distempers. Moravia was anciently the Seat of a Kingdom, including also Bohemia and Silesia, which being conquer'd by the Romans, was parcell'd out into four Dukedoms; this of Moravia was afterwards reduc'd to a Marquisate, which Title it still bears, but is mostly subject to Bohemia. The River Morawa, which rises in the Mountains on the North part, passes thro' the middle and gives name to this Province.
SILESIA, or SLISKO, lies between Bohemia on the South-west, and Poland on the North-east: Its utmost length from North-west to South-east, is about 225 miles, and its breadth 65 miles. On the side next Bohemia are many Mountains, but the rest of the Country is good Soil, and produces Corn, some Wine, Madder and Flax. Here are Mines of Silver, Copper, Lead and Iron, and plenty of Saltpetre. The River Oder takes its rise in the Southern bounds of this Province, and traverseth it from South to North-west. The Vistulae, which is the chief River of Poland, springs in the South-east Confines of Silesia: Many smaller Rivers rise he•e and fall into the Oder, encreasing it to a large Navigable Stream before it passes into Brandenburg. The Meadows have Cattle, the Forests Venison, and the Rivers Fish in good plenty. Silesia was part of the Kingdom of Poland for many Ages, but revolted under the Reign of Ʋladislaus Lothicus, and is now part of the Kingdom of Bohemia: but several Princes have sovereign Dominion over small parts of it.
The chief Cities and Towns of this Kingdom are these, viz.
In Bohemia.

Prague, Capital.

...Aegra.

...Koningratz.

...Glatz.

...Pilsen.

...Czaslaw.

...Tabor.

...Elnbogen.

...Budweis.

...Letomeritz.

...Piseck.

...Bern.

...Slany.

...Satz.

...Tetscen.

...Tabor.

Silesia divided into two parts, viz.

In the Lower,
Breslaw, Capital.

Crossen, Dutchy.

...Glogaw.

...Sagan.

...Lignitz.

...Wolaw.

...Oelse.

...Jawer.

...Schweidnitz.

In the Upper,
...Oppelen.

...Grotskaw.

...Jagensdorf.

...Troppaw.

...Ratibor.

In Moravia are,
...Brinn.

...Olmutz.

...Iglaw.

...Znaim.

...Hradisse.

...Cremsir.

PRAGƲE, Praga, olim Marobundum, Rubienum and Cusurgis, is seated on the River Muldaw, in a very fruitful Country, and is encompass'd with stately Courts and pleasant Places, appearing as it were in the midst of an Amphitheatre; it may be divided into three parts, viz. The Alt Stadt, or Old Town, the Nieue Stadt, or New Town, which is the chief, and wherein the Royal Palace stands, and the Kleine Seiten, or lesser Town on the other side of the Moldaw: All these together form one of the largest Cities in Germany, wherein Dukes, Princes and Emperors have for a long time kept their Court. In the lesser Town stands the Cathedral Church, dedicated to S. Vair, wherein are magnificent Tombs and a strong Castle. A stately Stone-bridge of 24 Arches over the Moldaw, joins this to the other Town. The Town-house, the College and Church of the Jesuits, and the University, are stately Buildings, which together with several other beautiful Edifices, make this so fine a place, that Aen. Sylvius compares it to Florence; but our ingenious Country-man Dr. Brown says, this City is larger and more populous than that; that the River Maldaw is much better than the Arno at Florence, but that the Dukes Palace and the Cathedral at F•orence, exceeds any thing in Prague. It is the See of an Archbishop, and the Seat of a flourishing University, Founded by the Emperor Charles VI. in the year 1358. The Bohemians brag much of the great number of Students that have been in this University, and say, that in the year 1409, J. Huss alone had above 20000 Scholars. This City was often taken during the German Wars; and near its Walls was fought that famous Battle between the Bohemian and German Protestants, under Frederick Prince Palatine, chosen King of Bohemia, and the Forces of the Emperor Ferdinand, on the 8th day of November, 1620, wherein the Emperor obtain'd the Victory, and forced the unfortunate Prince to quit his Royalty. Prague stands in the Latitude of 50 deg. and in the Longitude of 34 deg. 15 min. and at the distance of 100 miles from the Danube to the North, 145 mile from Vienna to the North-west, 50 from the Confines of Saxony to the East, 180 from the borders of Poland to the West, and about 40 from the bounds of Lusatia to the South.
Egra, call'd by the Bohemians Chebbe, is a great City at the borders of Bohemia, towards the Palatinate, 80 miles distant from Prague to the East; it stands upon the River Eger, and is Fortified with a double Wall &c.
Koningratz, or Kralouishrades, Gradium Reginae, Reginae Gradecium, is a good City seated upon the River Elbe, at 50 miles distance from Prague to the East, and 35 from Glatz to the West: It is now the See of a Bishop, who is a Suffragan to the Arch-Bishop of Prague, being lately made so by Pope Alex. VII. in the year 1664.
Glatz is a small City, built at the Foot of one of the Hills that part Bohemia from Silesia, and water'd by a small River call'd the Miza. It is the Capital of a very rich and fruitful Country of the same Name (in which are nine great Towns and 100 Villages) is very well fortified, and has a strong Castle which stands on the Top of a Hill: It is distant 85 miles from Prague to the East, and 55 from Olmutz to the North.
Elnbogen is a very strong Town upon the River Eger, 16 miles from Egra to the West, and near the Borders of Misnia; it is call'd the Bohemian Key to the German Empire.
Pilsen is a large strong and well fortified City, standing upon the Confluence of the River Meis and Caburz, 40 miles from Prague to the South-west, and 50 from Egra to the South-east, was besieged in vain by the Hussites, but was taken by Count Mansfeld, and was afterwards the last Town of Bohemia that yielded to the Imperialists. The Market-place is spacious, and is seated at the meeting of 4 or 5 Streets of very good Building. They have two very fine Churches.
Czaslaw, a small City, but the Head of a considerable Prefecture, 40 miles distant from Prague to the East, and 25 from Koning-gratz to the South. This was the Burial-place of John Zisca, the famous General of the Hussites, who, to revenge the Death of John Huss and Jerome of Prague, got an Army together of 40000 Men, with which he obtain'd many Victories over the Papists. At his Death he order'd, That a Drum should be made of his Skin; saying, The Enemy would fly at the Sound of it: Which was done accordingly, and had a strange effect upon the Enemy, who, being raw Soldiers, fancied themselves bewitched by this Drum, and shamefully run away without fighting. He flourish'd about the year 1420. And built
Tabor, which the Hussites fortified, and made the seat of their War; from whence, for 20 years together, they ravaged the Imperial Countries; and thereupon were call'd Taborites. It stands upon the River Lausnicz, 45 miles from Prague to the South, 35 from Czaslaw.
BRIN, call'd BRINO by the Bohemians, Lat. Brinum aut Bruna, is situated at the Confluence of the Rivers Schwarta and Zwitta, at the distance of 50 miles from Vienna to the North, and 120 from Prague to the South-east. It is by some reckon'd the Capital of the Marquisate of Moravia, and is defended by strong Fortifications; by the help whereof it sustain'd a vigorous Siege of the Sweedish Forces, in 1645.
Olmutz, Olomutium, is not very large, but a neat and well-built City, and has a good Trade with the Merchants of Bohemia, Poland, Hungary, &c. for which it is conveniently seated upon the River Morawa, which falls into the Danube, 80 miles below it. It is the Metropolis of this Marquisate, and the only Bishop's See in it, of which S. Cyril was the first Bishop, about the year 880. This Bishop was formerly a Suffragan to Mentz, but in the year 1346. was alter'd, and made subject to the Arch-bishop of Prague: It is distant 30 miles from Brinn to the North-east.
Iglaw, otherwise Giblawa, is a pretty large well-built and strongly fortified Town, on the Border of Bohemiae on the Road from thence to Hungary, and therefore much frequented by Travellers: It is water'd by a River of the same Name, which springs in Bohemia, about 20 miles from hence, and is distant 50 from Brinn to the West, and about 60 from Prague to the South-east. The chief Trade of the Town is in Beer and course Woollen Cloath. The chiefest Building in it is the Jesuits Colledge, and Gymnasium, which with two Monasteries of Dominicans and Franciscans are worth seeing. In the Hussites Wars this place was obstinate no the Popish Side, but very early receiv'd the Augsburg Confession. In the year 1645. it was surrendred to the Sweeds, who defended it for a whole year against all the Emperor's Forces.
Znaim or Znoymo, Znogma, stands upon the River Taya, not above 5 miles from the Borders of Austria, and 20 miles South from Brinn, in a pleasant Soil and wholsom Air, and is well fortified by a strong Castle, but with the inconvenience of being overlook'd by a Mountain, within Cannon-shot. This City is also on the Road to Vienna, which brings a good Trade to it. It was burnt in the year 1145. by Ʋladislaus King of Bohemia but rebuilt by Primislaus Ottacar, about 1222.
Hradisse or Hradisch, a City situate upon the River Morawa, 30 miles from Olmutz to the South, and as far from Brinn to the East.
Cremsir or Kremsier, and by the Bohemians Kromeritz, on the River Morowa, in the middle between Olmutz and Hradisse, is now become a very fair City, though not many Ages ago a poor Village; which was occasioned by a fine Palace, that Bruno Bishop of Olmutz built here; which drew so many People together that in a little time he wall'd it, and made it a City.
BRESLAW, Ʋratislavia, the Metropolis of Silesia, and of a particular Dutchy, to which it gives Name; is seated upon the River Oder, at the distance of 120 miles almost North-east from Prague, 110 North from Brinn, and 35 miles West from the Confines of Poland. It is a very large, well-fortified, and fair City, the See of a Bishop, established in 1033. and the Seat of an University. It is a Free City, being govern'd by a Council of 15 Senators, whereof 11 are Noblemen, and the other 4 chosen out of the Corporations of Drapers, Mercers, Brewers and Butchers. The Citizens are rich, and have a good Trade.
In the most North-east part of Silesia is the Dukedom of Crossen, which was anciently part of the great Duke of Silesia's Dominions, but was several times pawn'd to the Marquess of Brandenburg, and redeemed; but in the year 1391. it was deliver'd to John III. Elector of Brandenburg, with the Consent of Ʋladislaus, King of Hungary and Bohemia; which was confirm'd, and the sole and entire Possession of it granted to Joachim and John, Marquesses of Brandenburg, by the Emperor Ferdinand I. King of Bohemia, and is still enjoyed by that Elector.
Crossen, the chief City of it, is seated upon the River Oder, in a Pleasant Plain, and good Air, and is distatn about 40 miles from the Frontiers of Brandenburg to the South, and as far from Glogaw to the North-west. It is a neat old City; the Dukes Palace, the Town-house, and some Citizens Houses are built with Stone. The neighbouring Hills are covered with Fruit-Trees of many sorts, and the Country yields some Wine, but not very good.
Glogaw, call'd the Great, to distinguish it from a small Town of the same Name, is also the Capital of a Dukedom, some time govern'd by its own Lords, but now subject to the Emperor, as King of Bohemia. It was made a City by Conrade its Duke, in the year 1260, at which time the Wall and Cathedral Church were built: It was taken by the Swedes in 1647, but being restored, is now regularly fortified, and has a strong Castle. It stands on the River Oder, near the Frontiers of Poland, 40 miles from Crossen to the South-east, 55 from Breslaw to the North-west.
Sagan, Zeigan, the chief City of another Dukedom, of a small extent, is seated upon the River Bobor, near the Frontiers of Lusatia, 25 miles South from Crossen, and as many West from Glogaw, it was once one of the most populous and largest Cities of Silesia, but is now much decay'd; having been often taken by the Sweeds, and retaken by the Imperialists in the German Civil Wars.
Lignitz, the chief City of a Dukedom also, is a fair City, on the banks of the little River Katsbach, 25 miles from Glogaw to the South, and 36 from Breslaw to the West. About the year 1170, this Town was much enlarg'd and fortified, which was afterwards so improv'd in the year 1532, by Frederick its then Duke, that it became one of the best Fortifications, next Breslaw, in Silesia. The Castle is a very strong and noble Building, and the Hospital and Town-house are worth a Stranger's seeing. The Country of this Dukedom yields much Corn. In the year 1675, the last Duke dying without Heirs, it fell to the Emperor.
Wolaw, a small inconsiderable City, on the North side of the Oder, 16 miles distant from Lignitz, formerly part of the Dukedom of Lignitz, but now gives Title to a Duke of its own.
Oelse is a neat uniform well-built City, formerly well strengthen'd with Walls, Gates, Turrets and other Fortifications, but in the year 1648, they were demolish'd by the Swedish General, and not since rebuilt; here is a fair Church, College, Town-hall, and Market-place, which is exactly square. This City had also a Duke of its own, till in the year 1492 it was given to the Duke of Munsterberg, who is still Lord of it, and some other small Cities its dependences. Oelse is situated about 15 miles from Breslaw to the North-east.
Jauer and Schweidnitz, are two small Dukedoms, (both now in the Emperor) extended on the South-side of the Oder between Lignitz on the North, Breslaw on the East, and Munsterberg on the South.
The City Jawer stands in a pleasant Valley, and is fortified with high Ramparts, deep Ditches and a Castle, in which resides the Lieutenant of these two Dukedoms.
Schweidnitz stands South-east from Jawer, and South-west from Breslaw, about 20 miles distant from the former, and 30 from the latter. It is fortified with Walls and Ramparts, and beautified with many fair Buildings, so that it may be esteemed one of the finest Cities in Silesia. In the Armory here, is a Gun of an extraordinary size, being able to carry a Bullet of 320 pound weight. Besides these two Cities, there are 22 Towns in these two Dukedoms.
Munsterberg, the Capital of another Dukedom, is a small City seated in a fruitful Plain, 30 miles South from Breslaw. It has an old Castle, which, with the Town-hall, is all worth noting in this Town. Five other Towns are in this Dukedom.
Oppelen stands on the Northern banks of the River Oder, over which it has a Bridge, 40 miles above Breslaw. It has very thick Walls and strong Gates for its defence. Ever since 1647 it has been subject to the King of Poland, and all the People here and in the neighbouring Villages speak the Polish Language. This is a Dukedom also, and has 13 Towns its dependences.
Grotkaw, a small City that stands between Munsterberg and Oppelen, is the Capital of another Dukedom subject to the King of Bohemia; wherein stands also Neissa a City of good Trade, seated on a River of the same name, and 11 other Towns.
Jagensdorf, call'd by the Moravians, Carnowf, stands upon the River Oppa, 35 miles from Oppelen to the South. It is a small City and not considerable, except that it is the Capital of a Dukedom, which with the City, was by Lewis King of Hungary and Bohemia, given to George Marquess of Brandenburg, who built a Castle and erected some other Fortifications about it.
Troppaw, a small City upon the River Oppa, 15 miles from Ratibor, has nothing very remarkable in it, nor in its Dukedom, which has 8 other Towns in it.
Ratibor is a pretty good City, having in it a Cathedral and the Duke's Palace; the Houses are of Wood, as they are generally all over Silesia, but handsome enough, and the publick Buildings are of Stone: It stands in a pleasant Plain on the banks of the River Oder, 35 miles above Oppelen. The Dukedom of Ratibor, containing 5 other Towns, fell to the King of Bohemia in the year 1516, at the death of Duke Valentinus its last Prince.

CHAP. XI. The Marquisate and Electorate of BRANDENBURG, with MAGDEBURG and HALBERSTADT; and the Dukedom of POMERANIA.

THIS Country, included within the Circle of the Upper Saxony, is bounded on the North by Pomerania and the Dutchy of Mecklenburg, on the South by Silesia and the Upper Saxony, on the East by Poland, and on the West by the Lower Saxony. It is extended from North to South for the space of about 100 miles in its greatest breadth, and 50 elsewhere; as also about 200 from East to West. Its principal Rivers are the Elb, the Havel, the Spere, and the Wart. The Northern situation of its Country makes the Air cold, and the Winters continue very long, nevertheless the Soil brings forth every thing necessary for Sustenance. Here are very good Pastures, wherein great Herds of Cattle are fed, and large Forests abounding with Venison.
The first Inhabitants of this Country were the Varini and Naitones, part of the great Nation of the Suevians, after whom some Tribes of the Sclaves possessed it. About the year 920, the Emperor Henry conquer'd these rude People and planted Christianity among them, and bestow'd the Country upon Sigifrede Earl of Ringelheim, with the Title of Margrave, or Lord of the Marches, obliging him to defend it against the Sclaves; which Honour was at first conferr'd on whom the Emperor pleas'd, and was not Hereditary till the time of Albert of Anhalt, Successor to Henry the Lyon; to whom the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa gave it, and entail'd it upon his Issue: But this Family failing in the year 1323, several Families succeeded in it, till Anno 1417, the Emperor Sigismund conferr'd it upon Frederick Burggraf of Noremberg, in whose Family it still remains.
The Elector of Brandenburg is Lord of larger Territories than any other Prince of Germany, except the Arch-Duke of Austria; for besides this Marquisate, he possesseth many Estates elsewhere, viz. In the Lower Saxony, the Principalities of Magdeburg and Halberstadt, with part of Pomerania. In Westphalia the Principality of Minden, the Dutchy of Cleeves, and the Counties of Mark and Ravenspurg; as also the Lordship of Crossen in Silesia, and part of Prussia in Poland. The Lutheran Religion is predominant, the Princes, Bishops, and most of the People being of th•• ••ersuasion; and the rest Calvinists, here being few or no Roman Catholicks.
Brandenburg is divided into three Parts, call'd Marcks: The chief Towns whereof are these, viz.

In the Middle Marckt, which lies West of the River Oder, extending to the Harel and Elb.
...Berlin.

...Coln.

...Brandenburg.

Francfurt upon the Oder.

...Spandaw.

...Orananenburg.

...Rotenaw.

...Lebus.

The Lordship of Pregnitz, wherein are,
Havelburg, Bish.

...Newstat.

...Wistock.

...Dalmin.

The Lordship of Rupin,
...Rupin,

...Premslow.

The New Marckt lies to the North-east on the Banks of the Oder and Wart, stretching Northward into Pomerania, and hath these Towns of chiefest note,
...Landsperg.

...Kustrim.

...Soldin.

...Driessen.

The Lordship of Stern,
...Sernberg,

...Sonneberg.

The Old Marckt, lies on the Westside of the Elb, between that River and Lunenbug.
...Stendel.

...Gardeleben.

...Soltwedel.

...Werben.

...Tangermund.

...Sechausen.

...Osterburg.

To which may be added, being subject to this Elector,

The Dutchy of Magdeburg,
...Magdeburg.

...Borch.

And, The Principality of Halberstadt,
...Halberstadt.

...Oosterwike.

...Gruningen.

Of these Towns, those that deserve a particular description, are these that follow.
BERLIN, Berolinum, is pleasantly situated on the River Spere in a very fruitful Country, being environ'd on one side with Vineyards, on another with Marches, and on a third with Woods full of all sorts of Game. It is esteem'd the capital City of the whole Marquisate of Brandenburg, and is the usual place of Residence of the Elector. The River divides it into 2 parts, the larger whereof towards the North, retains the name of Berlin, and the other to the South, is call'd Coln, in which stands the Elector's Palace; the Stateliness whereof, the Grandeur of the Courts, together with the Largeness of the Streets, and the regular Architecture of the Houses, render this a very noble and magnificent City. It is distant 68 miles from Magdeburg to the North-east, 45 from Francfurt on the Oder to the West, and 48 from Wittemberg to the North. It was first built by Albertus Ʋrsus Prince of Anhalt, A. D. 1142.
BRANDENBƲRG or BRANDEBƲRG, Brandeburgum, was so called, as it were The Town of Fire, or took its name (according to the opinion of others,) from its Founder Brennus General of the Gauls. It is seated in the midst of a moorish Ground, and on the banks of the River Hamel, which divides it into two parts, viz. the Old or Ʋpper Town, and the New, being distant only 26 miles from Berlin to the West, as many from Havelberg to the South, and 45 from Magdeburg to the North-east, is a very ancient City, and hath given its name to the whole Country, as also a Title to the Elector of Brandenburg. It was also erected into an Episcopal See under the Metropolitan of Magdeburg, by the Emperor Otho, sir-nam'd the Great, A. C. 946. Its Bishops have adher'd to the Augsburg Confession of Faith ever since the year 1563. In the great Church are many Monuments of Princes, and in the Market-place a Statua Rolandina, of which an account is given in the Description of Bremen.
Francfurt upon the River Oder, and for distinction sake usually so express'd, is seated in a fruitful Country, at the distance of 44 miles from Berlin to the East, 70 from Stetin to the South, and not above 10 from the borders of Lusatia. It is divided into two parts by the River, over which they have a large Bridge of Wood. It is a place of reasonable good Trade, and hath two Fairs yearly held in it. The Marquesses of Brandenburg have, at several times, granted the Citizens great Privileges. The City was once free and imperial, as also one of the Hanse-Towns, but now exempt and less considerable than it hath been. In the year 1506, Joachim Marquess of Brandenburg founded an University here, which is now considerable.
Havelberg is seated on the River Havel, which a little below falls into the Elb, 20 miles from Stendal to the North, and 50 from Berlin to the West. It is the See of a Bishop, who was Suffragan to the Archbishop of Magdeburg, but since the year 1555, the Bishops have been of the Lutheran Persuasion.
Stendal, a Hanse-Town, the Metropolis of the Alt-Marckt, is seated on the River Ʋcht, in a pleasant Plain, and on the side of a large Forest; it is a neat well-built City, and strongly fortified. The Inhabitants have a pretty good Trade in Corn and Linnen Cloth. It lies upon the Road from Magdeburg to Hamburg and Lubec, by which the Inhabitants make good profit. The Courts of Civil Judicature for the Old Marckt, are held here. It is distant 32 miles from Brandenburg to the West, and 30 from Magdeburg to the North.
Soltwedel, a large Town, 35 miles from Stendal to the North-west, 50 from Zell to the East, and on the Road between Stendal and Lunenburg. It is seated on the River Jetze, and divided into the old and new Town: Its chief Trade is in Beer. This was formerly the Capital of a Marquisate subject to its own Lord, but was long since united to that of Brandenburg.
Tangermunde or Angermund, seated on the Elb at the mouth of the Anger or Tanger, 8 miles from Stendal to the South. It was at first a Castle built by the Emperor Charles IV. in the year 1376, but is now a place of pretty good Trade in Corn and other Commodities convey'd by the Elb to other places.
Landsperg stands upon the River Warta, 20 miles East from the Oder, and 35 North-east from Francfurt; Its convenient situation makes it a place of good Trade, which consists much in casting Iron Ordnance, &c. This City was often taken and re-taken in the German Wars.
Kustrim on the River Oder, near the mouth of the Warta, 50 miles from Berlin to the East, formerly an inconsiderable Village, now a very strong Town, and esteem'd the Key of the New Marckt, having been walled with Stone, and otherwise strongly fortified in the last Age by John Marquess of Brandenburg, and in 1631, was strong enough to baffle Gustavus Adolphus, who was forced to raise his Siege, and withdraw his Army from before it. The Houses are neatly and well-built, and the Market-place is the handsomest in all the Marquisate.
MAGDEBƲRG, a Territory of about 60 miles in length from East to West, and in some part 30, other 6 miles from North to South, situate between Brunswick to the West, Saxony to the East, Brandenburg to the North, and Anhalt to the South, the Elb running through; it was formerly an Arch-bishoprick, being made so by the Pope at the instance of the Emperor Otho I. and its Prelate Primate of all Germany, in which state it continued till the Reformation; when the Canons, having embrac'd the Doctrin of Luther in the year 1566. chose the Son of the Elector of Brandenburg Administrator of their Arch-bishoprick, after which it remained in the Administratorship of a secular Prince; till, at length, in the Treaty of Munster, A. D. 1648. it was agreed, That after the death of the then Administrator, the whole Country should devolve on the Elector of Brandenburg as a secular Estate and a Dukedom, which, together with the Bishoprick of Halberstadt, were given him as an Equivalent for the hither Pommerania, by the same Treaty granted to the King of Sweden. It is accordingly now subject to that Elector and is thought to have advanc'd his Annual Revenue at least 600000 Rix Dollars.
The City of Magdeburg, Magdeburgum, call'd in old writing Parthenopolis, is seated on the Banks of the Elb 45 miles below Wittenburg, in a pleasant Country abounding with Corn, but wanting Wood; as on the contrary the Land on the other side of the River wants Corn, but has plenty of Wood. It is distant 30 miles from Brandenburg to the South-west, 60 from Brunswick to the East. and as many from Leipsick to the North. It was built, or much enlarged at least, and wall'd round by the Emperor Otho about the year 940. at the desire of his Wife Edgitha. Daughter to our English-Saxon King Edmund; and being made a City, he endowed it with large Priviledges, made it Imperial, built also the stately Cathedral yet standing, and translated the Bishoprick of Vallersleben thither, and obtained the Dignity of Primacy to be added to it: By which means it grew exceeding wealthy and powerful, and continued so till the year 1631. that barbarous Count Tilly having taken the City, massacred the Inhabitants in a most bloody manner, and burnt and destroy'd the whole Town, except the Cathedral, and some few inconsiderable Houses; the Slaughter was so great, that of 40000 Citizens, its said not above 400 were left alive, which Loss it has never been able to recover; and tho the Electors of Brandenburg have much assisted it, and repair'd the Fortifications which are very strong, yet it still remains far less considerable than it has been. The Cathedral is a very noble Structure, and worth a Sranger's view; in it are forty nine Altars; and in one of the Chappels is the Tomb of the Emperor Otho and his Wife Edgitha, the Foundress of this Church.
There are 28 Towns more in this Dukedom, but none of them contain any thing worthy of a particular description.
The Province of HALBERSTADT is a small Country of about 40 miles in length and 25 in breadth, being bounded by the Dutchy of Magdeburg on the East, the Principality of Anhalt on the South, the Bishoprick of Hildesheim on the West, and Brunswick Wolfembuttel on the North. The Soil of it is good and yields plenty of Corn, and the Forests contain store of Venison. The Bishoprick, which was first founded in the year 780. by the Emperor Charles the Great, and planted at Osterwick, a Town in this Province, being in a little time remov'd to Halberstadt, gave name to this Country, which continued subject to its own Prelate till the Civil Wars of Germany, when the Bishop Leopold William having restor'd Popery, which had been abolish'd in 1591, the Sweeds besieg'd and took Halberstadt, restor'd the Lutheran Religion, and kept the Town and Country till the Treaty of Munster, by which this Bishoprick was Seculariz'd and given to the Elector of Brandenburg, and now bears the title of a Principality,
Halberstadt the chief Town, is seated upon the River Hotheim, 32 miles from Magdeburg, to the West. It was heretofore an Imperial City, but afterwards exempted and subjected to its Bishop, and now under the Elector of Brandenburg; it is reasonably well-built, the Streets are even, and the Houses neat and uniform. There is an Inn in this City that is thought the largest, and will accomodate the greatest number of Persons of any in Europe.
Osterwick, once call'd Salingstade, in which this Bishoprick was first planted, is seated on the River Ilse, about 12 miles from Halberstadt to the West.
Gruninghen, a small Town with a Castle, re-built in 1593, formerly the Seat of the Bishop, stands 10 miles from Halberstadt to the East. There is a remarkable Wine-fat in it of vast bulk, containing near 1000 Hogsheads,
Queidlingburg is also reckon'd in the Limits of this Principality, but belonging to the House of Saxony, is described with the rest of that Elector's Estates.
SECT. II. The Dutchy of POMERANIA, call'd Pommern in High-Dutch.
Pomerania is the most extream North-east part of Germany, being bounded by the Baltick Sea on the North, and Prussia on the East, having also Brandenburg on the South, and Mecklenburg on the West. It is about 80 miles broad, and 250 long: The Air is very cold, but the Soil however yields Corn and Fruits, also good Pasture, which is fill'd with Cattle, and Forests which abound with Venison. The River Oder falls into the Sea, after it has run through the middle of this Country: Besides which, the Rivers Pen, Rega, Persant, Wiper and the Stolp water this Dutchy.
Pomerania was long Govern'd by its own Dukes, of whom Parninrius at his Death in 1277, divided it between his two Sons; the Seat of the eldest being Wolgast, and of the Younger Stetin; but the House of Stetin failing of Issue in 1464, that part of Pomerania was conferr'd on the Marquess of Brandenburg, by the Emperor. This the Duke of Pomeren Wolgast oppos'd with all his might, and at length forced the Brandenburger to surrender it, but with this condition, that if the House of Wolgast should fail, the whole Dukedom should descend to the House of Brandenburg; which happening in the year 1637, when Bugislaus died with out Issue, the Elector of Brandenburg claim'd the whole Country: But the Sweeds in the mean time had got footing here, being call'd in by Bugislaus to assist him against the Imperialists in the German Civil Wars, and could not be perswaded to leave a Province which they esteemed so convenient for them. This caused a War between the King of Sweden and the Elector of Brandenburg, which was ended in 1648, by the Treaty of Osnabrug and Munster, wherein they agreed to share it betwixt them; the Sweed having all on the West-side of the Oder, and the Brandanburger that on the East: And as a compensation to the Elector, the Dukedom of Magdeburg and the Principality of Halberstadt were assign'd him by the same Treaty; which however did not satisfie him, and therefore when the rest of Europe were in Arms, the Elector of Brandenburg assumed his for the recovery of this Country, and entring the Swedish Pomerania, took Stetin in 1677 and Straelsund, and other Places soon after: But at the Treaty of St. Germain, what then remain'd in his hands was restor'd, and the Country is still divided, as we have said above.
The Division of will it be seen by this Table.

The upper Pomerania, subject to the K. of Sweden, is divided into the Territories of
Stetin
...Stetin

...Jasenitz

...Ʋkermond

...Passewalk

Wolgast,
...Wolgast

Gripswald. Hans.

...Kentzing

...Anklam

Gutskow.
...Gutskow

...Treptow

...Demmin.

Bardt.
...Bardt

Straelsund, Imper.

...Trebesis.

...Dumgarten.

The Islands of
...Rugen,

...Ʋsedom,

...Wollin,

...Bergen,

...Ʋsedom,

...Wollin.

The Lordships of
...Lewemberg,

...Butow.Subject to the K. of Poland.

The Lower Pomerania subject to the Elector of Brandenburg, is divided into the Territories of
Pomerania,
Camnin, Bish.

Coln, Hans.

Hargard, Hans.

Cassuben,
Colbert, Cap.

...Regemoald,

...Bublitz,

...Startgart.

Vendofia,
...Stolp,

...Slage,

...Rugenwold.

STETIN, Stetinum, is a very considerable City, the Capital of all Pomerania, and a Hans-Town. It is seated on the River Oder, at the distance of 18 miles from the Frontiers of Brandenburg, 30 from the Coasts of the Baltick Sea, and 70 from Berlin to the North-east. It is a large, strong and well-built City, and a place of great Trade, to which the River Oder much contributes; for it's self flows from Silesia, and the Warta falls into it; about 50 miles above this City and about 30 miles below it, both together fall into the Baltick Sea; so that this is a good Centre for exchanging the Commodities of Germany, Poland and the Baltick. The Palace which was formerly the Seat of the Duke, and is now the place where the Swedish Governor resides, is an old magnificent Building. This City is exceeding populous, and the Inhabitants are noted for Civility and Valour; an instance of the latter they effectually gave in the gallant defence they made against the Elector of Brandenburg in 1677, when tho' he brought a great Army before this City, and very vigorously attack'd it from the 7th of July, he was not able to take it before the 26th of December, and then too gave them very honourable Terms: In the succeeding Peace it was restor'd to the Sweed, under whom it still continues.
Wolgast is seated near that mouth of the Oder call'd Psin, about 5 miles from the shoar of the Baltick Sea, 50 North-west from Stetin, and 30 South-east from Straelsund. It was formerly, as we have said, the Capital of a Dutchy, but now subject to the Sweed. It is strengthen'd with a noble Castle, and hath the most convenient Haven, except Straelsund, in Pomeren. It was taken by the Swedes in 1630, after by the Brandenburgers in 1675, and restor'd to the Swedes in 1679.
Straelsund a Free City, is near the banks of the Sea, over against the Island of Rugen, 80 miles from Stetin to the North, and 40 from Rostock to the East. It is esteem'd the largest and wealthiest City in Pomeren, and enjoys many great Privileges, which the Citizens have maintain'd against several Princes that have endeavoured to subject them, wherein they have been remarkably Brave, having at once oppos'd the united Force of the Kings of Denmark and Sweden, and Ten other Princes. It is govern'd by its own Magistrates, who judge all Causes as well Criminal as Civil. The Buildings here are beautiful, the private Houses being of Stone and uniform: It is a place of very great Trade, (particularly for Corn) having an excellent Haven, the Ships coming up into the very Town. This City was Founded or Re-built at least in 1230, and soon grew populous, and was strongly fortified, by the help whereof, in 1629, it oppos'd Count Waldeck, who besieged it: After which, they put themselves under the Protection of Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, whose Successors have ever since held that Title. In 1678 it was besieged and taken by the Elector of Brandenburg, but restor'd at the Treaty of S. Germains, in 1679. The Fortifications consist of regular Bulwarks and large Ditches, besides natural Marshes, through which there is no passing but by Causeys that are well fortified.
Bardt stands in a fruitful Country 12 miles West from Straelsund, upon a little Arm of the Sea, which would be a good Haven, but that the Water is shallow, and so the Town cannot be traded to. It was sometime the Metropolis of the upper Pomeren.
CAMNIN, esteem'd the Capital of the Ducal Pomerania, is seated on the East-side of the mouth of the Oder that is call'd Drawenow, 30 miles North from Stetin, 40 South-east from Wolgast, and 5 South from the Coasts of the Baltick. It was formerly a Bishop's See, but by the Treaty of Munster it was Seculariz'd and given to the Marquess of Brandenburg.
Colberg, at the mouth of the small River Persant, and near the banks of the Baltick Sea, is a strong Town with a convenient Haven. It is pretty much resorted to for Salt, which is made in great plenty near it; and being hence Transported, makes the Town rich and considerable.
The Three Islands lye in the Baltick Sea, all along before the Coast of the Upper Pomeren. That of RƲGEN is the largest and most considerable; it is 30 miles in length, and as many in breadth, but with several Arms and Creeks of the See within it: It is situate to the North-east over against Wolgast and Straelsund, between which last place and it, the Sea is not above a League broad: The Land of it is exceeding fertile, yielding Corn in great plenty, and very good Grass, whereby great Herds of Cattle are fed. It was formerly govern'd by its own Princes, who assisted by the notable Valour of the People, long defended it against the neighbouring Kings: But the Straelsunders opposing the Authority he pretended over the Strait that leads to their City, occasion'd Prince Wislaus to besiege it; but the City defended it self so well, that not only he could not take it, but in a Salley he was slain, and being the last of his Family, that Government afterwards was subjected to the Duke of Pomeren, from whom it descended to the King of Sweden: But the Danes, having some old pretensions, in the War of 1678. Invaded and Took the whole Island; but in 1679, by the Treaty restored it to the Sweed, to whom is still Subject. The chief Town is.
Bergen, which is a place of no great Note, being not Fortified nor even Wall'd, though call'd a City. It contains about 400 Houses; and is distant about 25 miles from Straelsund to the East, and as many from it Wolgast to the North,
The Island denominated from the Town WOLLIN, call'd anciently Julium, is the Western of the two Islands that make the three Mouths of the Oder. The Town is seated on the mouth of the Oder, call'd Druenow, 28 miles North from Stetin, and 25 South-west from Wolgast. It was anciently one of the largest Cities of Europe, and resorted to by Merchants of all Nations, and said to have been so Powerful, as alone to maintain a War against Denmark, and three several times took their King Prisoner: But it was partly destroy'd by Lightning, and finally, by the Arms of Woldemar King of Denmark, in 1170 totally Demolish'd. Since when it hath been only a small inconsiderable Town.
ƲSEDOM, which gives name to another Island that lies North-west from that of Wollin, and makes the other two mouths of the Oder, one whereof runs between these two Islands, and is call'd Swine, and the other beyond Ʋsedom, which is nam'd Pfin. Upon the Destruction of Wollin, this Town was resorted to by the Danish and Polish Merchants, and became a place of good Trade, but in 1473 it was all burnt down by an accidental Fire, which destroyed its Trade; and it hath since been only a small Sea-port Town, and not considerable.

CHAP. XII. SAXONY.

SECT. I. A short Account of the History of Saxony in General.

THE Saxons were anciently a vast Nation, and Possessed all the Northern Parts of Germany, from Franconia and Bohemia in the South, to the Baltick Sea and Denmark in the North; and from the River Elb on the East, to the Rhine on the West; whereby not only the Present Upper and Lower Saxony, but also all Westphalia and Holstein were part of their Country: Nay, also Jutland, now reckon'd part of Denmark, was Inhabited by them.
Concerning the Etymology of the name Saxon, the Learned differ; some are of opinion, that they were deriv'd fron the Saci, a People of Asia, to which our Learned Country-man Mr. Camden enclines. Others say, they were deriv'd from Saxum a Stone, as being a hardy strong People. Verstegan and others affirm, that they had their name from a Weapon they wore, call'd a Seax, which was a short Sword of different form from those commonly worn, and peculiar to this Nation.
They were Men of a large Bulk and great Strength, renown'd Warriers; and so notorious for Piracy, that the Romans were oblig'd to keep Forces all along the Coast of Gaul and Britain to hinder their frequent Incursions.
It was this Warlike People that King Vortigern invited to Britain to assist him against the Picts and Scots, who upon the Romans forsaking them, much annoy'd the Britains: But of what part of this great Nation those were that he Invited, is somewhat uncertain; ancient Histories tell us they were Angles and Juts: Jutland is suppos'd to have been the Country of the latter, but from what part the former came is more Disputed: Mr. Camden is of Opinion that they dwelt in Sleswick, which was sometime called Angel; though others affirm they came from Westphalia, and were accompanied by the Frisons. For the Reader's further Satisfaction, he may consult Camdens Britannia, where he will find this Matter most learnedly and ingeniously Discussed.
They were Pagans, and Govern'd by Twelve Noblemen, chosen by the Commons, out of whom in time of War, they chose a King; which Government continued till the time of Charles the Great, who made War upon them, and was long oppos'd under the Conduct of Wittikind their King; but the power of Charles prov'd too strong in time, and Wittikind was oblig'd to submit and receive the Christian Faith, which by the great care of Charles was planted and propagated over the whole Nation, and Wittikind was by him created Duke of Saxony.
The Race of Wittikind continued Dukes of Saxony, till Otho III. who being chosen Emperor in 984, gave his Country to Barnard Lord of Lunenburg, whose Grandson Magnus was deprived by the Emperor Henry III. and Henry Guelph, Duke of Bavaria, made Elector of Saxony, whose Son Henry sirnam'd the Lyon, siding with the Pope against the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, about the year 1170, was Proscrib'd, and by the Emperor's Command depriv'd of his Estates by the neigbouring Princes. The Electoral Dignity was Anno 1180, given to Bernard Earl of Anhalt, Son to the Marquess of Brandenburg, and descended from Magnus above-mention'd, who had conquer'd Lawenburg from Henry, to which the Emperor added the City of Wettimburg and all the Country that tyes between the Elb and the Sala North-ward of Misnia, and gave it the name of the Upper Saxony, The Posterity of Bernard enjoyed this with the title of Duke and Elector of Saxony, till 1422, when Albert III. dying without Issue, Frederick Landgrave of Thuringen and Marquess of Misnia, who was the Heir of the Family of Wittikind, by the Emperor's favour, succeeded, in whose Family it still remains. His Successors have been zealous defenders of the Reformation, especially D. John, who was one of the Princes who protested against the Decree of the Diet at Spire, in 1529, as we have elsewhere said, and was the Author of the Smalcalden League: But in the War that ensued thereupon, his Son and Successor Frederick John, had the Misfortune to be taken Prisoner by the Emperor Charles V. and depriv'd of his Honours and Estate, which in 1547 were given to his Cousin Maurice, Grandson to the Land grave Frederick above-mention'd, from whom the present Duke and Elector is Descended.

SECT. II. The Ʋpper SAXONY.

The upper Saxony is bounded on the North by the Principalities of Magdeburg. Halberstadt, and the Marquisate of Brandenburg, on the South by Fran•oni• and Bohemia, on the East by Silesia and on the West by Hesse and Brunswick. Its Extent is, from North to South about 130 English miles, and from East to West 200. The Air is cold but healthful, and the Soil fertil, producing much Wheat but very little Wine; here are Mines of Lead, that are very profitable, and some of Silver, that yield the Elector above 100 thousand Pounds a year. The chief Rivers are, the Elb, the Sala, the Elster, the Ʋnstruck, the Spree and the Neisse.
The Religion of the Inhabitants is generally the Lutheran, though there are also some Calvinists and Roman Catholicks,
The Elector of Saxony is the wealthiest Prince of Germany, except the Archduke of Austria, his yearly Income being reckon'd to be 400 thousand Pounds Sterling; which is raised by the Silver Mines abovementioned, and by Excise upon Beer, Corn, Wine, Fruit, &c. The Splendor of his Court is very great, being attended by a vast number of Servants, among whom are several Gentlemen of great Quality. 'Tis said of the Elector Christian II. that he had, besides a great number of the Gentry of his own Country, three Dukes, three Earls and five Barons of Foreign Nations his Pensioners at the same Time. The Dominions of this Prince were increased in the year 1620. by the Emperor's Donation of the Marquisate of Lausatia to Duke John George, in reward for the service he did him in the Bohemian War.
So that his present Dominions are, the Dukedom of Saxony, and the Marquisates of Misnia and Lusatia, &c. The chief Towns whereof are seen in this Table, together with those of the other States, that compose the rest of the Circle of the Upper Saxony, viz Anhalt, Thuringen, &c.

The Dutchy of Saxony is but a small Country, lying between Brandenburg on the North, Misnia on the South, Lusatia on the East, and Anhalt on the West. The chief Towns are,
...Wittemberg,

...Torgaw.

The Marquisate of Misnia is bounded on the North by Brandenburg and Anhalt, on the South by Bohemia, on the East by Lusatia, and on the West by Mersburg, Naumburg and Altenburg. It's extent from North to South is near 100 miles and from East to West 80.
...Dresdin,

...Meissen,

...Leipzick,

...Chemnitz,

...Freyburg,

Voigtland, the South part of Misnia.
...Zwickow,

...Plawen.

The Marquisate of Lusatia lies Eastward from the Dutchy of Saxony and Misnia, and is bounded on the North by Brandenburg, on the South by Bohemia, and on the East by Silesia. It is in length from North to South about 90 miles, and in breadth about 50 miles; the chief Towns in it are
...Bautzen,

...Gorlitz,

...Cotwis,

...Guiben,

...Soraw,

...Liebaw,

...Luben.

Other smaller States belonging to several Branches of the House of Saxony, and lie Westward of the Countries above mention'd, viz.

The Dutchy of Sax-Hall,
...Hall,

...Sax-Mersburg.
...Mersburg.

...Sax-Naumburg,
...Naumburg,

...Sax-Altemburg,
...Altemburg.

The Principality of Anhalt is a long but narrow Tract of Land lying on the North of Misnia.
...Zerbest,

...Bernberg,

...Dessaw.

The small County of Barby joyns to Anhalt on the North.

THƲRINGEN, formerly a Kingdom, afterwards a County and then a Landgraviate, was govern'd by its own Princes for many Ages, till 1124. when, upon the Death of Herman, it descended to the Marquiss of Misnia, and, with that Country, came afterwards to the Duke of Saxony; but is divided into several Lordships and Sovereigns, according to the following Table.
In Thuringen are thess Chief Towns,

Erfurt, Cap. subject to the Archbishop of Mentz,

Gotha, Dutchy.

Eysenach, Dutchy.

Weimar, Dutchy.

Mansfeld, County,

Stolberg, County,

Hohensteim, County,

Schwartzemburg, County,

Mulhausen, Imp.

WITTEMBERG, Witemberga aut Vitarum Mons, the Capital City of the Dutchy of Saxony, is seated on the River Elb, 40 miles South from Brandenburg, as many North from Leypzick, 70 East from Halberstadt, and as many West from the River Oder. It is a fair large City, of an oblong Square form, with one great Street in the middle; adorn'd with an University, which was founded by the Elector Frederick III. in 1502. and made famous by the Preaching of Martin Luther: And well fortified both by Nature and Art, having Marshes on the North, and a great Canal to the Elb, also a very deep Ditch, a good Rampart and 5 large Bastions on the Side that is most expos'd. This is the Capital of the Electorate, and was the Seat of the Elector, till that Honour came into the Family of Misnia, when it was removed to Dresden.
Torgaw is a fair City, built by John Frederick, the Elector, in 1535. and beautified with a stately Castle. It is seated on the West Side of the Elb, 20 miles South from Wittemberg.
DRESDEN, Dresda, is seated on the River Elb, which divides it into two Parts, at the distance of 55 miles from Wittenberg to the South-east, 25 from the Confines of Bohemia to the North, and 50 from Leipzick to the East. It is a large well-built City, and the usual place of Residence of the Elector of Saxony; whose Palace is a strong and magnificent Castle, adorn'd with many Curiosities, especially a Chamber of Rarities, and an Armory extreamly well furnished, as also very fine Gardens and Stables The City, as we have said, is divided by the River into two Parts, that on the South Side is call'd Alt Dresden or the Old Town; to which the New is joyn'd by a Stone-Bridge of 17 Arches, which is reckon'd a curious piece of Workmanship.
Meissen, Misnia, once a rich and populous City, and the Metropolis of the Province, but now not considerable, stands on the South Side of the Elb, 12 miles West from Dresdin: It is a Bishop's See, and has a Territory belonging to it, which, with the City, was formerly subject to its Bishop, but now in the Hands of the Elector. Here was a wooden Bridge over the Elb that was much admired, but was destroyed in the German Wars.
LEIPZIG or Leipsick, Lipsia, Lupfurdum, is thought to have been built by the Vandals (who were the ancient Inhabitants of this Country) about the year 700. It stands upon the River Plesse, and near the Elster, and is distant 50 miles from Dresden to the East, and 40 from Wittenberg to the South. It is a very large, rich and populous City, the most considerable of any in this Elector's Dominions. It is very full of Houses, and those well-built and very high, many seven, and some nine Stories. S. Nicholas Church is very fine, and esteem'd the best of any Lutheran Church in Germany. The Citizens have a great Trade, especially by reason of three Fairs held yearly, which bring a concourse of Merchants from all Parts. A high Court of Judicature is held in this City, which hath great Power, even to summon the Elector himself. Here is also an University, which was establish'd in 1408. by Frederick Marquess of Misnia: It hath four Colleges and 24 Professors, and is well fill'd with Students. The Castle seated on the Plesse, and call'd Plessenburg, is a very strong Fort and well guarded. In 1520. Martin Luther disputed here with Eckius against the Pope's Supremacy, and quickly after this City imbraced the Reformation. It suffer'd much in the Civil Wars of Germany, having been several times besieged and taken.
Freyburg is a famous and pleasant Town, 20 Miles from Dresden to the West, very pleasantly situated, near the River Mulda, 16 miles South-west from Dresden. S. Peter's Church here is the usual Burial-place of the Electors, many of whose Monuments are there to be seen; but that of the Elector Maurice is the most magnificent, not only of those but of any in Germany. But that which makes this Town most considerable is the famous Mines that are found near it; out of which they dig great Quantities of Silver Oar, besides Copper, Lead, Brimstone, Vitriol, &c. and so much Silver is hereby produced that the Elector's Profit out of it is esteemed at 130000 l. per annum, clear of all Charges.
Plawen or Plaven, a small City, is seated upon the River Eister, 16 miles South-west from
Zwickow, a small City, seated upon the River Muldaw 40 miles South from Leipzick: It was a Free Imperial City till the year 1308. at which Time it was taken by Frederick Marquiss of Misnia. This Country was the chief Seat of the German Civil Wars, and many incampments were made near this City.
BAƲTZEN or BAƲDISSEN, Budissina aut Bubesiae, the chief City of the Marquisate of Lusatia or Lausnitz, stands on the River Spree, near the Frontiers of Saxony, 30 miles from Dresden to the East, 20 from Gorlitz to the West, and 70 from Prague to the North. It was formerly an Imperial City, but lost its Priviliges. Before the last German Wars it was well built, but in 1634. the Imperialists having got Possession of it, were besieged by the Elector of Saxony, and intending to drive off the Enemy, set Fire to the Suburbs, which was unhappily driven over into the City, and burnt it to Ashes, and soon after it suffer'd much from the Sweeds; since when it has not been able to recover its former Lustre.
Gorlitz, call'd by some, the Capital of this Marquisate, is seated in a Marsh upon the River Neisse, which rises on the Borders of this Country, and after it has run quite cross it falls into the Oder. This is a good City, having many stately Dwelling-houses and several neat Churches; it's Trade lies chiefly in Brewing and making Linnen and Woollen Cloth: It is 20 miles distant from Bautzen to the East.
Liebaw▪ Lobaw, Liben, or Lubben, is a small Town, seated in a Plain among pleasant Meadows in the middle between Bautzen, and Gorlitz: It was formerly so rich, that when the Sweeds Plunder'd it, in 1639. they confess'd that they got 70000 Rix Dollars in Mony, besides much rich Booty.
Soraw, call'd by some, the Capital of the lower Lusatia, is a small City 30 miles North from Gorlitz, and very near the Borders of Silesia. It was often taken and retaken in the German War, but is now subject to the Elector of Saxony,
Luben on the River Spree, 50 miles North from Baudzen, and 30 miles West from the River Oder. This is generally esteemed the Capital of the lower Lusatia. The Elector of Saxony has a Palace in it.
Guben, a small but well fortified Town, stands in the lower Lusatia, on the River Nisse, 30 miles from Luben to the East, 10 from the Oder to the West, and 45 from Gorlitz, to the North. It was taken by the Imperialists in 1631. and endur'd a Siege of three Weeks by the Sweeds, in 1642.
Cotwis or Cotbuss is a fair Town, seated on the small River Havel, where it falls into the Spree, 35 miles North from Baudzen, and 22 miles South from Luben. It is now subject to the Elector of Brandenburg, as are also Peytze, Somerfeld, and some other Towns of less note in this Marquisate.
MERSBƲRG, formerly a Bishop's See, under the Archbishop of Magdeburg, but now possess'd by the Elector, as Administrator of it; and with the Territory belonging to it, serves for the Portion for some of the younger Brothers, who are styl'd Dukes of Sax-Mersburg. The Town at present consists of a great number of old-fashion'd ruinous Houses, and hath nothing considerable in it but the Cathedral.
NAƲMBƲRG, a City once Imperial, now subject to the House of Saxony, is seated upon the River Sala, where it receives the Ʋnstrut, 25 miles West from Leipsick, and 15 from Mersburg to the South. It is a Bishop's See, under the Archbishop of Magdeburg, and has a Territory of about 20 miles Extent, belonging to it, which was formerly govern'd by its Bishop: But it was yielded to the House of Saxony by the Treaty of Passaw, in 1552. one of which Family is Administrator of the Bishoprick.
ALTENBƲRG stands upon the River Pleisse, 24 m. from Leipsick to the South, and 46 from Dresde• to the West. It was once an Imperial City, but was taken by Frederick Marquiss of Misnia in 1308. and united to that Dutchy. It has a Castle in which the Dukes of Saxony have some time kept their Palace.
HALL, call'd Halla Saxonum, for distinction, a considerable Town, on account of the profitable Salt-Pits near it. It was at first a small Village, and call'd Dobredor, but by reason of the Salt-Pits, encreased much, and obtain'd a Charter in 981. from the Emperor Otho II. and got at last to be an Imperial City; but it has been long exempted, and subjected to its own Duke, with a Territory belonging to it; since fallen to the Archbishop of Magdeburg, and so subject to the Elector of Brandenburg. This City is seated on the Bank of the River Sala, 24 miles North-west from Leipsick, on the Side of a pleasant Hill, cover'd with Vines: It is neatly built, and the Inhabitants are civil. The Salt Pits yield a Toll to the Administrator of Magdeburg, of 500 or 600 Crowns a Week.
The Principality of ANHALT is bounded on the South by the Counties of Hohenstein and Mansfe•d, and on the North by the Principality of Halberstadt, and Dutchy of Magdeburg, and is extended from East to West the space of 90 miles, tho' but very narrow: It is subject to its own Prince, who is of a very ancient Family, from which sprung both the Houses of Saxony and Brandenburg. The chief Towns in it are
Zerbst, on the Eastern Side of the Elbe, about 20 miles from Magdeburg, and 50 from Leipsick to the North; the Place of the Prince's Residence.
Bernburg, a fortified Town, seated on the Banks of the Sala about 8 miles from the Elb. This is another Residence of the Prince's; whose Palace is separated from the Town by the River Sala. In 1636, this Town was taken, and the Garrison put to the Sword by the Elector of Saxony.
Dessaw, on the Elb, at the Mouth of the Mulda, a strong fortified Town, pleasantly seated, in a fruitful Country, 8 miles from Zerbst to the South, and 20 from Bernburg to the East; in which also the Prince has a Palace.
ERFORT, Erford or Erfurdt, lat. Erfordia, aut Erfurtum, the Capital City of Thuringen, is seated on the Banks of the River Gere, 60 miles West from Lipsick, 60 North from Bamberg and 70 South from Halberstadt. It is a considerable Place, both on account of the Wealth of its Inhabitants and the Beauty of its Publick Edifices, especially the Churches and Abbeys, the stately Castle call'd Ciriaxberg, and a famous University. This City hath a large Territory, wherein stand many Villages, all which were subject to the Archbishop of Mentz, but at the Reformation the Inhabitants imbraced the Protestant Religion, and put the City under the Protection of the Elector of Saxony; which occasioned great Contests between those two Princes: At length the Bishop of Mentz, with the Assistance of the French, took it by Force, and oblig'd the Citizens again to receive his Government. However, by the Treaty of Leipsick, 17 of the Villages, its dependencies, were granted to the Elector of Saxony, and the City, with the rest of the Villages, are still subject to the Elector of Mentz.
Mulhausen is an Imperial City, but under the Protection of the Elector of Saxony. It stands at the foot of a Mountain, upon the River Ʋnstrut, near 30 miles from Erfurt to the North-west, 20 from Eysenack to the North, and 10 from the River Weser to the East.
Weimar, a neat, well-built and a very ancient City, stands 12 miles from Erfurt to the East, in which is a stately Palace, where the Landgrave of Thuringen used to reside. This City gives Title to a Branch of the Family of Saxony.
Jena is a handsom City, seated on the River Sala, 25 miles from Erfurt to the East. It is famous for an University, founded her by John Frederick Elector of Saxony, to which was granted many Privileges by the Emperors Charles V. and Ferdinand; it is in a flourishing state, and has bred many eminent Men, particularly J. Lipsius the great Philologer. The Town is well fortified, and stands in a pleasant Vale, in which grows plenty of Vines.
Gotha, 16 miles West from Erfurt, the Seat of another Branch of the Saxon Family, who is still Duke of Gotha, and is Lord of this Town, and the Counties of Altenburg, Coburg, Honneburg in Franconia, and Osterland in Upper Saxony. It is a large wall'd Town and has a good Trade in the Plant call'd Woad, which is sowed and dressed here, and exported in great Quantities.
Eyesenach or Isenach, Isenacum, a small City, standing on the River Nesa, near the Borders of Hessen, and distant near 30 miles from Erfurt, and 15 from Gotho to the West. It gives Title to a Duke of the Family of Saxony, and hath an University in it, which was founded 1555.
The County of SCHWARTSBƲRG is a Tract of Land, of about 40 miles in length and 25 miles in breadth, and is bounded on the South by Thuringen, on the West by Naumburg, Mersberg and Hall; the chief Town is Sunderhausen, of which, as well as Franken-hausen, Hersingen, Kinderbruch and Keula, the best Towns in this County, there is nothing considerable.
The small County of HOHENSTEIM lies North of Schwartsburg: Its chief Town is Northausen, an Imperial City, said to be built in 447. by Meroveus King of France. It stands upon the River Zorge, 40 miles from Erfurt to the North, and is under the Protection of the Duke of Saxony.
STOLBERG is a very small County, lying North of Schwartsburg, between Hohensteim to the West, and Mansfeldt to the East. Its chief Town is of the same Name.
The County of MANSFELDT is bounded on the West by Stolberg, on the East by the River Sala, on the South by Thuringen, on the North by some part of Anhalt, and about 30 miles in length from North to South, and 15 in breadth. This Country abounds with Mines of several sorts, but particularly of a Mineral, call'd Scheifforstein, which yields much Copper and some Silver. It is possess'd by its Counts, but with some acknowledgment of Homage to the Duke of Saxony. This Family is branched out into several Houses, who have divided the Country among them; by which means they are not now so considerable as they have been.
The Chief Town is Eisleben, a small City near the Lake call'd Susse See, 40 miles from Weimar to the North, and 55 miles West from Wittenberg. It has its name from the abundance of Iron-Ore found hereabouts. In this Town Martin Luther was born, A. D. 1483. and died here Anno 1564.
Mansfeldt, whence the County has its Name, is an old and ruinous City, about 5 miles from Eisleben to the North-west. It has a strong Castle on the Top of a Hill, which, being much decayed, was repaired and fortified, A. 1547.

SECT. III. The Lower SAXONY.

The Lower Saxony comprehends, at present, the Dutchies of Brunswick, Lunenburg and Lawenburg, the Diocess of Hildersheim, the Principalities of Magdeburg and Halberstadt, the Dutchies of Bremen, Ferden and Mecklenburg, together with that of Holstein, which partly depends on the Jurisdiction of the King of Denmark. Besides these nine principal Parts of the lower Saxony, there are also many other Sovereign States of a lesser extent, viz. the Dutchies of Hanover, Zell, Gottingen, Grebenhagen; the Cities of Hamburg, Lubeck, &c.
The whole Country is bounded on the North by the German Ocean, Denmark and the Baltick Sea, on the South by Hessen and the upper Saxony, on the East by Pomerania, and the Marquisate of Brandenburg, and on the West by Westphalia. It is extended from North to South, for the Space of about 200 miles, and from East to West about 220. The most remarkable Rivers are, the Elb, the Weser, the Aller, the Hamma, the Ilmenon, the Leme, the Ocker, and the Eld. Every Prince is absolute within his Dominions, and generally assumes a Title from thence, excepting the States of the Dutchies of Bremen and Ferden, whereof the King of Sweden is Administrator; those of the Principalities of Magdeburg and Halberstadt, which depend on the jurisdiction of the Elector of Brandenburg, and the free Cities of Hamburg and Lubeck. The Lutheran Religion is generally predominant throughout the Lower Saxony, the Princes, Prelates, and even the Abbess of Queidlinburg, professing it, except the Bishop of Hildesheim and some Abbots and Abbesses that profess the Romish. Tho' the Air be cold, the Land produces Corn and Pasture.
The Lower Saxony, with its Dependencies, hath these chief Cities and Towns, viz.

In the Dukedom of Brunswick are,
Brunswick, Dutchy.

Wolfembuttel, D.

Hanover, D.

Grubenhagen, D.

Blackenburg, C.

Reinstein, C.

Queidlinburg, Ab.

Goslar, Imp.

Hamelin, Hans.

Eimbeck, Hans.

Gottingen, &c.

In the Dutchy of Lunenburg,
Lunenburg, D.

Zell, D.

...Harburg.

...Ʋltzen.

...Walstrode.

In the Bishoprick of Hildesheim,
...Hildesheim,

...Peina.

The Dutchy of Magdeburg and Principality of Halberstadt are already spoken of, with the Dominions of the Elector of Brandenburg.

In the Dutchy of Bremen,
...Bremen,

...Staden,

...Buxtede,

...Bremerfurt,

...Ottersberg,

...Rutzenbuttel.

The Principality of Ferden,
...Ferden,

...Rodemburg.

In the Dutchy of Holstein,
...Hamburg,

...Lubeck.

The rest is reckon'd part of Denmark.

The Dutchy of Lawenburg,
...Lawenburg,

...Ratzeburg.

The Dutchy of Mecklenburg,
Swerin, D.

Gustrow, D.

...Rostock.

Wismar, Hans.

...Mecklenburg.

...Waren.

Plawen, &c.

BRƲNSWICK, including the Dutchy of Hanover, Principality of Grubenhagen and Counties of Blackenburg and Reinstein, is bounded on the South by Hesse-Cassel, on the West by the River Meser, on the North by Lunenburg; and on the East by Magdeburg: The chief Rivers in it are the Leina and the Ocker, besides the Weser which washes its Borders. This Country was anciently part of the Hercynian Forest, and there still remain great Woods and Parks by which the Inhabitants are plentifully furnish'd with Timber and Fuel, and great store of Game. The Corn grows extream high, but there is not a great deal of it, nor is the Country very populous. The Inhabitants are of a large size and very robust, feed course and lodge hard; Swine's Flesh, with Wheat or Rye Bread, is their common Diet, insomuch that they are, by the other Germans, call'd Bacon-guts.
Upon the Division of Saxony before-mentioned, this Country and Lunenburg were left to Henry the Lyon, whose Grandson Otho was created Duke of them by the Emperor Frederick II. A. D. 1235. But he leaving two Sons, these Dutchies were divided A. D. 1264. but upon the failure of Issue, again united in the year 1368. in the Person of Duke Magnus; whose Sons, being ambitious, parted it again. In the year 1491. this Dukedom of Brunswick was divided by the two Brothers Henry and Eric into equal Shares, whereof Henry's part was known by the name of Brunswic-Wolfembuttel. In 1584. Eric's Issue failing, the whole Dukedom was united in the House of Wolfembuttel, and remained so till 1634. that Frederick Ʋlrich dying without Issue, this Dukedom of Brunswick fell to Augustus Duke of Lunenburg, and then the Dutchy of Wolfembuttel descended to the younger House of Lunenburg. The present Duke, Ernest Augustus, is descended from the House of Hanover, and has succeeded to all the Estates of that Dutchy, as well as Lunenburg and Brunswick, and has been lately (Anno 1692) honour'd with the Title of an Elector of the Empire. He was born Anno, 1629. and in 1658. married the Lady Sophia, Sister to our Prince Rupert (being a Protestant) by whom he has had three Sons and a Daughter.
This Family is the only Relict of that famous one of the Guelphs, who were sometime Dukes of Bavaria and Saxony; of the original of which there goes a notable Story as follows. Jermintrudis, Countess of Altorf, upbraided a Woman with Adultry, and made her be punished because she had 12 Children at a Birth: It happen'd that shortly after, she her self was deliver'd of the same number, all Sons; at which she was much concern'd, as fearing the same scandal; and therefore (her Husband being then absent) commanded her Nurse to kill 11 of them; who, accordingly, carrying them secretly out in her Apron, was met by the old Count, and asked, what she had there? The Nurse replyed Woelpen, Whelps; he not contented with that Answer examin'd farther, and forc'd her to confess the whole Matter: Upon which he enjoyn'd the Woman secresy, and dispos'd of the Children, and six years after produc'd them all together to his Lady and all their Friends, at a Feast he had made for that purpose, and caused them all to be named Whelps, which after alter'd to Guelphs.
BRƲNSWICK was first built by Tanguard and Bruno Dukes of Saxony, A. D. 861. since when it has been often enlarged, and is now one of the most considerable of the Hanse-towns. It is divided into five several Corporations, each of which hath its Court of Judicature, but unite in Matters relating to the common Interest. It is a rich and populous place, and drives a great Trade in Hides, and Mum, which is brewed here by certain Persons who have the sole Power, and exported to several Countries. Brunswick claims to be a free, Imperial City, and has several times disputed with the Duke, who all a long claim'd the Soveraignty; on which account it has endur'd many Sieges, the last of which was in 1671. when it was taken by the present Duke, who has ever since kept a good Guard, and built a Citadel, and otherwise strongly fortified it, tho' to the Injury of the City; for the Merchants being displeased, have removed to other places. The Houses are well built and the Town-house is very magnificent: The form of the Town is almost square, the River Ocker running through the middle, and is 2 miles in circuit, and surrounded with 2 Walls and 2 Ditches. It is seated in a Plain, near the Northern Bounds of the Country, and is distant 100 miles from Erfurdt, and 40 from Halberstadt to the North, 70 from the River Elb, and 26 from Zell to the South, 60 from the Weser to the East, and 60 from Magdeburg to the West.
WOLFENBƲTTEL stands upon the Ocker, but 10 miles from Br••swick to the South. It is the ancient Seats of the Dukes of Brunswick. It is divided into two parts, viz. Arx Guelpica, the Duke's Palace, and Henrich Stadt, the Town. In the Palace is a Library exceeding well furnished with valuable Books, founded by the late Duke Augustus; in the Town, the new Church is remarkable, being an admirable piece of Architecture, and in it are buried 21 Dukes and Dutchesses of Brunswick. It is defended with strong and impregnable Fortifications, and secured by marshy Grounds.
HANOVER, Hannovora, call'd anciently Lawenroda, and Han-over, from a Ferry over the River Leina on which it stands, 35 miles from Brunswick to the West, and 28 from Zell to the South. It is a strong and populous City, once Imperial, but has long been subject to its Prince. The Inhabitants are much Enriched by four yearly Fairs held here: It is the Capital of the Territory of Culenberg.
Gottingen, a City seated on the River Leina near the Confines of Hesse, 10 miles from the Weser, 60 miles from Hanover to the South, and 20 from Cassel to the North-east.
Hamelen, seated on the River Weser over which it hath a Bridge at the mouth of the Hamel, is a strong, fortified and well-garison'd Town, being near the Confines of Brunswick toward Westphalia, and call'd the Key of this Duke's Dominions; it is distant 45 miles from Gottingen to the North, and near 30 from Hanover to the South. There is a Story of a strange Accident that, they say, happen'd in this Town on the 26th of June, 1284, of a Piper that undertook to rid them of Rats, with which they were very much annoy'd, which he did, it seems, by the power of his Musick; for, at the sound of his Tabret and Pipe, all the Rats follow'd him out of the Town to the River, where they were drown'd. When he had done his Work he return'd for his Pay, which the Towns-men refused him, pretending it was too much for so little Work: Upon which he went away in a great Rage; and a Year after came again, and playing as before, all the Children follow'd him into the mouth of a Cave, on the top of a neighbouring Hill, and neither Piper nor Children were ever after heard of. This Story the Towns-men relate with great confidence, and there is still to be seen, near this Cave's mouth, a Monument of Stone, with an Inscription expressing the loss of 130 Children, swallow'd quick in that Cave.
Grubenhagen, a Castle near the River Leina, and about 12 miles from Gottingen to the North, has a Territory belonging to it which is a Dukedom, but subject to the Duke of Brunswick; it is very woody, having been part of the Hercynian Forest, and abounds with Pine and Fir-trees. In this Province are rich Mines of Silver, Copper, Lead, and many sorts of Minerals. These Mines were first discover'd in the year 972, as the Germans relate, by a Hunter, who, having ty'd his Horse to a Bush and gone a little from him, at his return found a piece of Ore beat out of the Ground with his Hoof; this Hunter's name was Ramme, whence the Mountain in which this Mine is, was call'd Ramelsberg. In 1045, other Mines were also discovered in the neighbouring Hills; and here are now many Towns inhabited only by Miners. The chief Town of this Dutchy is
Eimbeck, seated at the confluence of several small Rivulets, which a little lower fall into the Leina; it is distant 20 miles from Gottingen.
Helmstadt, a City built by Charles the Great, Anno 782, seated near the borders of Magdeburg, and 24 miles from Wolfembuttel to the East, wherein is an University founded by Julius Duke of Brunswick-Wolfembuttel, A. 1576, which is endow'd with large Privileges; particularly that its Rector should for ever have the Title and Dignity of Count Palatine, and has bred many eminent Men, particularly J. Horstius, Meibomnius, Reineccius, Conringius, &c.
Gostar stands upon the River Gosa, which falls into the Ocker near the Confines of Hildesheim, and is 40 miles distant from Gottingen to the North, and 25 from Brunswick to the South; it is a free and imperial City enjoying large Privileges. The Origine of this City was a Palace built by the Emperor Henry I. The Trade of it is in cleansing, tempering and vending all sorts of Metals and Minerals dug in the neighbouring Countries.
The Counties of BLACKENBƲRG, REINSTEIN and QƲEIDLINBƲRG, (together with Hohenstein, Stolberg and Schwartzburg in the Upper Saxony, already described) were formerly one Province, and call'd Hartingow. It is a cold Country, and has Mountains, on which Snow lies till Midsummer; affords little Corn, but the Valleys are fill'd with Cattel and the Forests with Venison. The Inhabitants are thought the longest Livers in Germany, frequently arriving to the Age of 100 or 110 years. They have Mines of Iron in the Bowels of the Mountains, of which one here call'd Brocken or Brocksberg, is esteem'd the highest in Germany.
Betwixt Blackenburg and Elbingrode is a remarkable Cave, call'd Buman's Hole, of which none can find the end, tho' many have travell'd very far in it. Large Bones are frequently found in it, and not many years since a Skeleton of a Man of prodigious Bulk was brought out among other Rarities. There goes a Story of a young Fellow, that seeking after his Cattel in this Cave lost his way, and wandering 8 days together in it, at his return his Hair was chang'd grey, and he told strange Stories of Spirits and Apparitions that he said he had met within it. Here are two great craggy Rocks not far from Blackenburg, which naturally represent two Monks in their proper Habit, as exact as if they were carv'd out.
Blackenburg and Reinstein, are two small Counties which lie betwixt Halberstadt and Anhalt. They both receive their names from Castles, of which that of Blackenburg stands 36 miles from Wolfembuttel to the South, and 25 miles from Mansfeld to the North, and is the Hunting-seat of the Duke of Wolfembuttel. That of Reinstein is old and not considerable: Many other Castles hewn out of Rocks are to be found in these Countries, but are not regarded.
Queidlinburg, a small City, formerly a Hanse-town, now not considerable but for a Lutheran Nunnery, the Abbess whereof is of the House of Austria, and Lady of the City and a small Territory belonging to it. It is distant 8 miles from Blackenburg to the East, and 10 from Halberstadt to the South.
The Bishoprick of HIDELSHEIM lying between the two Rivers Leina and Ocker, is surrounded with the Territories of the Duke of Brunswick, and therefore much in his power, tho' properly under the Elector of Cologn as Administrator of Hidelsheim, to whom it was restor'd by the Treaty of Brunswick, A. D. 1653, having been for many years before in the hands of the Duke of Brunswick. His Suffragan the Bishop, is the immediate Governor of this Country, and Protector of the City of Hidelsheim, which is a Hanse-town, and considerable on account of the great Trade in Corn, which they maintain. The Buildings are old and venerable, but neat enough: The Inhabitants are most of them Lutherans, tho' the Bishop be of the Romish Church, and the only one in Brunswick. It is distant 15 miles from Hanover to the South-east, 50 from Gottingen to the North, 30 from Zell to the South, and 25 from Brunswick to the South-west.
Peina, a small City, stands on the River Fuse, about 12 miles from Brunswick to the West, and has a strong Castle, the Bulwark of this Bishoprick, on a Hill; a remarkable Battel was fought near it in 1553, between Maurice Elector of Saxony and Albert Marquess of Brandenburg, in which the former lost his life.
The Dukedom of LUNENBURG.
Is bounded on the S. with Brunswick, on the N. with the River Elb, on the E. with Brandenburg, and on the West with the Dutchy of Bremen and County of Hoye; it is full of large Woods and Forests, which abound with Deer and other Game; other parts of the Country are Heath, barren and desart Lands of vast extent. The Inhabitants are the most rustical of all Germany.
The Government of the Dutchy of Lunenburg, as has been already said in the description of Brunswick, hath been all along enjoy'd by the Descendants of Henry the Lyon, and is at present united with that of Brunswick, under the Illustrious Prince Ernest Augustus, Duke and Elector of Hanover, Brunswick and Lunenburg.
LƲNENBƲRG or Luneburg, Luneburgum, a Hanse-town, and the principal City of this Sovereign Dutchy, is seated on the River Ilmenow, at the distance of 8 miles from the Elb, and 35 from Lubeck to the South, 60 from Brunswick to the North, and 30 from Hamburg to the East. It is a fair City, of an oblong Form, and about two miles in Circumference; the Streets are broad, and the Houses well built. The Town-hall is a handsom Building, over against which stands the Duke's Palace; the Bridge over the River is a very stately one. There are famous Salt-springs near the Town, out of which great store of Salt is made, and affords the Inhabitants a considerable Trade. The Castle that stands on an adjacent Mountain, call'd Kalchberg, they say is 124 years older than the City, which was built by Henry the Lyon, in 1190.
ZELL, the Capital of a Dutchy possessed by a Branch of the Family of Lunenburg, is seated on the River Aller, where the Fuhse falls into it, 35 miles South from Lunenburg, 28 North from Hanover, and 29 North-east from Brunswick. The Duke's Palace is a square Building, adorn'd with very pleasant Gardens, Orchards and Grotto's. It is moted round, and was built A. D. 1485. In it are held the chief Courts of Judicature.
Bardewck, but five miles distant from Lunenburg to the North, was anciently a strong and very populous City, but now a poor Village only. The Cathedral Church is the only one now left of 9 that were formerly in this Town, in which is still a College of 8 Residentiary Canons.
Harburg is a strong Town upon the Elb, 30 miles West from Lunenburg; it has a Castle, and is the strongest Frontier of this Country: The Town is but thinly inhabited, and not considerable.
Ʋltzen a little neat Town, in the midway between Lunenburg and Zell, was formerly call'd Lawenwald, and had this name of Ʋltzen from a Monastery in the neighbourhood call'd Olden Stadt. In the year 1646, it was destroy'd by Fire, but is the greatest part rebuilt more splendid than formerly. The Inhabitants pretend, That the English Saxons went from hence, and that a Ship of Tin gilt, that was to be seen in the Market-place before the Fire, was hung up in remembrance of it, by some of them that return'd.
Walstrode, at first only a Monastery, built by one Walo Prince of Anhalt, A. 986, but now a considerable Town, driving a good Trade in Hony, Wax, Wool and Beer; it stands in a pleasant Valley encompass'd with Mountains and Woods, 25 miles from Zell to the East, near the Borders of Ferden,
The Counties of Hoey and Diepholt, already described, are subject to the Duke of Lunenburg.
The Dukedoms of BREMEN and FERDEN.
Eastward from Lunenburg, and between the Rivers Elb and Weser, lies the Dutchy of Bremen, which was formerly an Archbishoprick, and the whole Country subject to its Prelate, till about the year 1644, this Country was conquer'd by the Sweed, and by the Treaty of Munster the Archbishoprick of Bremen, with the Bishoprick of Ferden, were granted to that King, and turn'd into a Dukedom: But tho' this is spoken of the Country in general, it is not meant of every part of it; for the City of Bremen is free and has a Territory of its own, the Citizens of Hamburg have the two Forts of Ritzenbuttel and New-Werck, and a part of it belongs to the Dutchy of Sax-Lawenburg; as will be seen more particularly in our Description.
The Soil of this Country is in the middle Parts sandy and barren Heath, but the outer part towards the two Rivers is very fertil and abounds with pleasant Fields and Meadows.
The Inhabitants are reckon'd as good Soldiers as any in Germany; and 'tis said of the Wustlanders, the Inhabitants of that part of the Country that lies to the Sea-side, that they will Fight and Drink with the best Men in Germany.
BREMEN, Brema & Bremensis Civitas, which gives name to this Dukedom, is a very considerable, large and well-built City, seated in a fruitful Plain on the Banks of the Weser, 70 miles from Zell to the West, and 60 from Embden to the East, 90 from Munster to the North, and 60 from Hamburg to the South-west. It is very strong, for besides the Walls and Castle the situation affords them a good Defence, the low Grounds about it being easily overflowed from the Weser.
It is a free, imperial City, and reckon'd the third of the Hanse-towns. Charles the Great founded the Archbishoprick, and made it the Metropolis of the North. The Emperor Henry V. A. 1111, granted the Citizens great Privileges in reward of their valiant Performances in the Holy War. It receiv'd the Reformation in 1552, and zealously defended it against their Archbishop. Upon which account it was besieged by order of the Emperor Charles V. in the year 1547, but the Citizens so valiantly defended themselves, that Goenghen Governor of Zeeland, who commanded in chief, was kill'd, and the Duke of Brunswick, who succeeded him, was forc'd at last to raise the Siege, after near a year's labour in vain. It is govern'd by four Burgo-Masters and 24 Common-Council-men, who also judge all Law-suits between the Citizens. The River Weser divides it into two parrs, of which that on the North-side is the Old City, and the other is call'd the New; these are join'd again by Wooden Bridges, the biggest of which has a curious Engine on it that raises the Water, and distributes it all over the Town. The Streets of the old Town are large and center in the Market-place, wherein stands an old Image of Gigantick Bulk, call'd Statua Rolandina, on which is an ancient Inscription importing it to be a Testimonial of the Liberty granted by Charles the Great and other Emperors, to this City. These Statues have been set up in many Cities, and by the Germans (tho' with little reason) said to be the Image of a certain General nam'd Roland, employ'd by Charles the Great in the Conquest of these Countries; in whose Honour he order'd these Statues to be set up, and made the condition of their Tenure of certain Privileges. In the old Town stands also the Town-house and the ancient Cathedral Church dedicated to S. John, wherein they shew the Tomb, as they say, of Willibald an English Priest, who was sent over into Germany by Egbert Archbishop of York, at the request of Charles the Great, to convert these Infidels; who after he had labour'd many years with great success, was made the first Archbishop of this See, and died A. D. 790. In the new Town are the Arsenal and the Gymnasium or small University, at first a Free-School, built soon after the Reformation, and endow'd by the Citizens; which encreasing by degrees, is now a noted University, and has educated several famous Men, particularly Chytraeus, Pezelius, Pierius, Mat. Martinius and Jo. Cocceius. This City, by means of the River, is much frequented with Merchant Ships from Holland and other Nations, by which they export their own Commodities, Corn, Minerals, Wool, Timber, Fish, Leather, &c. and receive those of other Countries, which they, by the same River, transmit to the other Provinces of Germany. The Territory of this City extends about 8 or 10 miles round.
Stade, the next considerable City in this Dukedom, is situated on the River Zwinga near the Elb, in a fruitful Country and wholesom Air, about 50 miles from Bremen to the North, and 25 from Hamburg to the West. It is a very strong Place, being fortified with vast Ramparts, Bulwarks and a strong Castle: It has a commodious Haven, into which larger Ships can enter than are able to get up to Hamburg. This City hath been endow'd with great Privileges; particularly it was an Asylum, or place of Refuge for all Offenders, and had a right to demand a Toll of Ships passing up the Elb; besides, it is a Hanse-town: By all which means, no wonder it was once rich and populous. But it seems Hamburg out-stript it, and this place became so poor that they were forc'd to sell its great Privileges to that City, and put themselves under the Protection of the Archbishop of Bremen, and it is now subject to the King of Sweden. It was anciently the Capital of a County subject to its own Earl, which was annex'd to the Archbishoprick by Philip Duke of Schwaben and Earl of Stade, about the year 1240. After its decay above-mentioned, our English Merchants, upon some Abuse offer'd them at Hamburg, remov'd hither; which reviv'd its Trade, and in a little time made it again rich and populous, and it is at present in good condition. The Town is well built, and the Market-place, Town-hall and Churches, are worth a Traveller's sight.
Buxtehude, another Hanse-town, is seated on the River Essa near the Elb, in a very fruitful and pleasant Country, 15 miles from Stade to the West, and as many from Hamburg to the East. It is a Granary to Hamburg, that City receiving a great part of its Provisions from this.
Bremerfurde, a wall'd Town, on the Road betwixt Bremen and Stade, being distant 25 miles to the North from the first, and 15 to the South from the latter. It was once the Palace of the Archbishop, and has a Castle, wherein, because it commands the neighbouring Plains, the Sweeds keep a good Garison. The Town is otherwise not considerable, having little or no Trade.
Ottersberg, a small fortified Town defended by a strong Castle, which was for sometime the place of Residence of the Archbishop, stands 16 miles from Bremen to the East.
Rutzenbuttel is a strong Fort at the mouth of the Elb, 32 miles to the North-west from Stade, and not 10 miles from the utmost point of Land of this Country. It belongs to the Hamburghers, who have also another small Fort near it call'd New-Werck, and a small Territory round them.
The Duke of Sax-Lawenburg is Lord of that part of this Country call'd Hadelland, which is the most North-east part of it, but contains nothing considerable enough to deserve a particular Description. The extent of it the Reader may judge by the Map, when he knows that Nuhenbuys on the Elb, and Carlsladt on the Weser, belong to the Sweed. Hadler, which gives name to the Country, and Ottersdorp, are the two best Towns in it.
The Principality of FERDEN or VERDEN, formerly a Bishoprick, and now subject to the Sweed, as abovesaid, is situate next to Lunenburg, and bounded on the West by the Weser; it was made a Bishoprick by Charles the Great. The chief Town of the same name stands upon the River Aller, which falls into the Weser, and is distant 42 miles from Zell to the West, and 27 from Bremen to the East. It is supplied with all Foreign Commodities by Barges from Bremen: The City has nothing very considerable in it. It has been several times taken, viz. by Count Tilly, in 1626, by the Imperialists, in 1631. In 1676, it was seized by the Duke of Lunenburg, but restor'd to the Sweed, in 1629, to whom it still remains.
Rotenberg, a small City on the River Wein, stands in the Bounds of this Principality and near the borders of it, 15 miles from Ferden to the North. It was at first the Bishop's. Palace, which was fortified in the year 1500, and the small Village near it wall'd in and made a City; which since is considerably encreas'd and grown a place of some Trade and well inhabited.
The Cities of HAMBURG and LUBECK.
HAMBƲRG, that flourishing rich and populous City, is seated on the North-side of the River Elb, at the distance of 40 miles from Lubeck to the South-west, and 65 from Bremen to the North-east, 30 from Lunenburg to the North-west, 60 from Zell to the North, and 72 from the mouth of the Elb; which River makes it a most commodious Haven, being so deep that Ships of very great Burden can come up to the very Walls of the Town, and the Tide flows up 16 miles above it. It is the chief Port and hath been long the greatest Mart-town of Germany: The Haven is continually full of Ships, and the Exchange daily crowded with Merchants. The Town is divided into two parts, the Old and the New, but both close together and parted only by a Wall, and both well fortified. The Buildings are of Brick, and exceeding high and stately; the chief Church, formerly a Cathedral, is dedicated to S. Peter, and was built about 830. Several of the Earls of Holstein and Schawenburg lie buried in it. In S. Catherine's Church is a Pulpit of white Marble curiously carved, and adorn'd with Figures of Alabaster and Ornaments of Gold. The Poor and Sick are extraordinarily well provided for in Hamberg, by the many Hospitals liberally endow'd, of which there are no less than 6, for the maintaining old, decrepit, poor People; for curing the Sick, for educating poor Children, to receive poor Strangers fallen sick in Travelling, and for the maintenance of maimed Seamen: Besides which, care is taken of the Widows and Children of those that lose their Lives in the service of the Publick.
The Trade of the City consists in all manner of Foreign Goods, as well as those of the product of Germany, the former being receiv'd by Ships from all parts of the World, and from hence convey'd up the Elb to the heart of Germany; and the Commodities of the several parts of the Empire return'd by the same River, and transported to other Nations, to the great Profit of the Inhabitants who are the Managers of this vast Traffick. Our English Merchants having brought great Profit to this City, are treated with great Civility and Respect, and have the Privilege of trying and deciding Controversies among themselves, before their own Resident; and are permitted the free Exercise of their Religion, which is denied to other Nations, The Inhabitants, being Lutherans, forbid the exercise of the Romish Religion.
This rich and powerful City is a free and imperial State, and independent of any Power but the Emperor's, to whom they pay a small Homage. They enact Laws, punish Criminals even to death, levy Taxes, make League and War as they please, by a Grant of the Emperor Frederick I. and confirm'd by Ferdinand II. The Citizens of Hamburg are exempted from all Tolls and Customs upon the Elb, betwixt their own City and the Ocean; notwithstanding which, the King of Denmark has sometimes compell'd their Ships to pay a Toll at his Castle of Gluckstadt, which occasion'd great Contests. This was made up in the year 1645. and the Hamburgers permitted to re-assume their ancient Privileges, upon the payment of 120000 Rix Dollers to that King.
The Government of this City is in its own Magistrates, who are 4 Burgomasters, 20 Schepins or Aldermen, and 12 Common-council, call'd die Oberalten, or chief Elders. These, upon extraordinary Occasions call to their Assistance 60 more, eminent Citizens call'd, The Elders of the City; and if it be too difficult a matter for them to determine, the whole Commonality of Freemen are assembled. This City is able to arm 15000 Men.
It was taken by Woldemar Duke of Sleswick about the year 1200. who gave it Albrecht Earl of Orlimund, of whom the Citizens bought their Liberty, and so became a free State; which was several times confirm'd by the Earls of Holstein and Schawenburg, his Posterity, to the last of that Family, who died A. 1459. after which, the Province of Holstein falling into the Hands of Christian I. King of Denmark, the Hamburgers contracted a League of Friendship with that Prince, whose Successors have often endeavour'd to have the Protection of this City, but could never obtain it. In the year 1510. the City of Hamburg was declared free and Imperial by the Emperor Maximilian in the Diet, and the Duke of Holstein summon'd to make good his Pretensions to it, or renounce them for ever. In fine, the City has to this day preserv'd its Freedom, which it has been the better able to do, by reason of the continual Jealousies between the two Northern Crowns; for the Sweed being Master of the South-side of the Elb, as the Dane is of the North, what mischief this does them from Gluckstadt, will be reveng'd by the other from Stade. However, the Dane has several times fleec'd them; in the year 1679, he got 220000 Rix Dollars of them, to take them again into his Favour, as 'twas term'd in the Treaty; and in the year 1686. he again brought an Army and besieg'd it, but was bought off.
LƲBECK, Lubeca & Lubecum, an Imperial City and the Capital of all the Hanse-towns, is conveniently seated near the Sea and on the Banks of the Travo, which having receiv'd the Waters of a lesser River into its Channel, form a kind of Marsh round about the Walls, and passing through the City conveys Vessels of as large size as any that sail upon the Baltick, up to the Town, which, by that means, is a place of great Traffick. It was heretofore only a small Town, built by Adolphus Count of Holstein, under the Reign of the Emperor Conrad III, from whom it was taken by Henry the Lyon Duke of Saxony, afterwards conquer'd by Waldemar Duke of Sleswick; but being ill treated by the Danes, the Citizens expell'd them, and put themselvs under the Protection of the Emperor Frederick II. who constituted it an imperial and free City, A. 1209. and it is at present one of the principal ones of Germany. It is distant 10 miles from the Coasts of the Baltick Sea, 37 from Hamburg to the North-east, and as many from Wismer to the West. The Streets are very fair and adorn'd with divers magnificent Buildings, the chief whereof are the Cathedral dedicated to S. John, the Collegiate Churches of the Virgin Mary, S. James. S. Peter, &c. It's Episcopal See under the Metropolitan of Bremen, was translated hither from Oldenburg, A. D. 1162. but the Bishops have been Protestants ever since the year 1561. when the Reformed Religion was introduc'd here by Dietlerus of Reventlon, and a Custom hath prevail'd, That the Administration of the Bishoprick of Lubeck should devolve as an Appenage or Inheritance on the younger Sons of the Duke of Holstein-Gottorp, the shadow of an Election being only left to the Chapter, whence they are stiled Dukes of Eutym, from a Town about 4 miles from hence so called, wherein this Prelate usually Resides, and which was annexed to the Episcopal See by Adolphus II. Count of Holstein, when it as yet retain'd the name of Oldenburg. The City is Govern'd by twelve Burgomasters, who are Civilians and Gentlemen. The Common-Council are compos'd of Lawyers and Merchants, Mechanicks being excluded. A remarkable Treaty of Peace was concluded at Lubeck, between the Emperor and the King of Denmark, A. D. 1629.
The Dutchy of LAWENBƲRG lyes on the Banks of the Elb, between the Dukedoms of Holstein, Mecklenburg and Lunenburg, and is subject to its own Duke, who is of the Family of the ancient Dukes of Saxony. The chief Town of the same name, is seated on the River Elb, 25 miles from Lubeck to the South, 35 from Hamburg to the East, and 15 from Lunenburg to the North. It is said to have been built by Henry the Lyon, Duke of Saxony, and thence call'd Leoburgum; but in the Wars against that Prince it being much damaged, Bernard of Anhalt who succeeded him, reedified, enlarged and strengthned it, and gave it to John his Second Son, with this Dutchy; from whence the last Duke of Sax-Lawenburg was descended, who dying in the year 1692, and leaving no Issue Male, the Succession to this Dutchy hath been claim'd by the Elector of Saxony and other Princes.
Ratzeburg, seated on a Lake of the same name, 15 miles from Lawenburg to the North, and 12 from Lubeck to the South, is the See of a Bishop, under the Archbishop of Bremen, planted by Henry the Lyon, when he conquer'd these parts. It was subject to its Bishop before the Treaty of Westphalia, A. D. 1648, by which the Jurisdiction of it was divided between the Dukes of Mecklenburg and Lawenburg, the Town being given to the former, and the Castle to the latter. This Town receiv'd the Augustan Confession, A. 1566. It is the Capital of a Country of the same name, and the ancient Burial-place of the Dukes.
To this Duke, as hath been already said, some part of the Dukedom of Bremen is subject, as are also Frankenhausen, Sassenhausen, and some other Towns on the Elb.
The Dukedom of MECKLENBURG.
The Dukedom of Mecklenburg is situate between the Dutchies of Holstein and Sax-Lawenburg to the West, the Baltick Sea to the North, Pomerain to the East, and Brandenburg to the South. It is a Country reasonably large, and stor'd with Corn, Fruits, Fish and Fowl, but in an unpleasant Air, being not wholsom in the Summer, and extream Cold in the Winter: The ancient Inhabitants were the Vandals. At present the Country is divided between the two Dukes of Swerin and Gustrow. This Division was made in the year 1592, for the sakes of the two Sons of John III. the Eldest seated in Swerin, and the Youngest Gustrow.
Swerin, seated upon a Lake of the same name, is distant 40 miles from the River Elb to the North, 20 from the Baltick Sea to the South, and 35 from Lubeck to the East: It was built by Henry the Lyon, A. D. 1163, who bestow'd it on Guntzel one of his Generals, with the Lordships belonging thereto, and made him Earl of Swerin, but his Family ending in 1355, it was annex'd to Mecklenburg. The Bishop's See which had before been at Mecklenburg, was about the year 1260 remov'd to this City, at the request of Henry, who built the Cathedral and Library and endow'd it, since which time there was a continual Succession till the Treaty of Munster, when the Bishoprick was Seculariz'd. In this City the Duke of Mecklenburg Swerin keeps his usual Residence.
Mecklenburg is at present a small inconsiderable Village near Wismar, tho' anciently a large City, and gave name to this Dukedom. There are some little remains of Ruins to be seen for some miles round.
Gustrow, the place of Residence of the Duke of Mecklenburg Gustrow, is a strong well fortified Town, and stands 35 miles from Swerin to the East, and 18 from Rostock to the South.
Rostock a Free Imperial City and Hanse-Town, but under the Protection of the Duke of Mecklenburg, is seated on the River Warna, which 8 miles below it falls into the Baltick Sea, and makes it a reasonable good Port, which was well frequented by Merchants Ships, but since the Treaty of Munster the Sweeds have built a Fort at the mouth of the River, and exact a Toll on all Ships that pass by, to the great decay of the Trade of this Town. An University was founded here by the Dukes of Mecklenburg, Anno 1419, which is now one of the most flourishing in Germany. It stands 16 miles from Gustrow to the North, and 36 from Wismar to the East.
Wismar, a Hanse-Town, is seated at the bottom of a Bay of the Baltick Sea, 12 miles from Swerin to the North. Henry de Mecklenburg about the year 1266, establish'd the same manner of Government here as was at Lubeck, by which it quickly grew rich, and the Haven being convenient, it was made the Harbour of the Men of War belonging to the Hanseatick Society, and the Town very strongly fortified. This City was granted to the Sweed by the Treaty of Munster, and was taken from him by the Dane in 1675. By the last Treaty of Peace between those two Princes, it was agreed to be deliver'd to the Sweed upon payment of certain sums of Mony, which it seems are not yet paid, for the Town still remains in the hands of the King of Denmark.

CHAP. XIII. The Circle of WESTPHALIA.

THIS Circle lies on the West-side of the River Weser, from the German Ocean on the North, to the Province of Hessen on the South, and between the Lower Saxony on the East, and the Netherlands on the West. The utmost extent of it may be reckon'd about 200 miles from North to South, and from East to West, in some parts 100, in others 150 miles; which extent comprehends many Sovereignties, viz. The Principality of East Friezland, and Bishopricks of Munster, Osnabrug and Paderborn; the Dutchies of Cleeve and Juliers, with several smaller States, as is more particularly express'd in the Table annex'd.
It was anciently inhabited by the Saxons, and by them call'd Westvelden, from its situation on the Westside of the Weser, as the Country on the other side was call'd Oost-velden: From hence, some affirm, the Saxons came that Invaded England, and many Arguments not altogether improbable, have been made by some Learned Germans to prove it. But since Mr. Camden, who was so indefatigable an Enquirer into and so excellent a Judge of Antiquity, enclines to the common Opinion, that they came from the most Northern part of Saxony, it is most reasonable to be concluded by him, and reject the Arguments of others, how plausible soever they may seem.
When Charles the Great had conquer'd the Saxons, and planted Christianity among them, he erected several Bishopricks, to which he gave Lands for their support. In the part we are speaking of, we find three very considerable ones, besides that of Liege, who have Sovereign Princes; they were not made altogether so potent in his time, but encreas'd their Dominions at the general Partition that was made of the great Dukedom of Saxony, when Henry the Lyon was Proscrib'd; 'twas then that the Bishop of Munster enlarg'd his Country, and that the Archbishop of Cologn obtain'd that part of Westphalia which he still holds, and by that part of it stiles himself Duke of Westphalia. The other Sovereignties are the County of East Friezland, the County of Oldenburg, the Principality of Minden, the Counties of Hoye, Lippe, Ravensberg, &c. together with the Dutchy of Cleeve Juliers and Berg, all which have been erected at several times, upon several occasions, which we have not room here particularly to shew.
The Air, especially in the Northern part is very Cold, and great part of the Ground is Marshy, or Barren; however Corn and Pasture is produc'd in plenty; but the Fruit is very ordinary, and serves chiefly to feed the Hogs, whereof this Country hath good store, and of an excellent Kind; so that the Bacon which they send abroad, is very much esteem'd. The chief Rivers are the Weser, the Eems, the Lippe, the Roer, the Aa, &c. The Accommodations a Traveller may meet with here, is prettily enough express'd in this Distick, very common in Germany, viz.
Hospitium Vile Groof Broot, dun Bier, lange MilenSunt in Westphalia: Qui non vult credere Loop daer.
That is,
Who Travels in Westphalia's sure to find,Long Miles, small Beer, course Bread and Lodging vile.
The Circle of Westphalia is thus divided,
The Bishoprick of Munster, wherein the chief Towns are
...Munster,

...Kloppenberg,

...Vecht,

...Meppen,

...Tilligt,

...Koesfeldt,

The Dutchy of Westphalia, subject to the Elector of Cologn. See the Division of it in the account of the Dominions of that Prince.

The Bishoprick of Osnabrug.
...Osnabrug,

...Iburg.

The Bishoprick of Paderborn,
...Paderborn,

...Lippesburg,

...Warburgh.

The Abbey of Corbey,
...Hoxter.

County of East Friezland,
...Embden,

...Norden,

...Aurich,

...Esens,

...Jever.

The County of Oldenburg,
...Oldenburg.

The Principality of Minden,
...Minden,

Petershagen, C.

The County of Bentham,
...Bentham.

The Dukedom of Cleeve,
...Cleeve,

...Embrick,

...Rees,

...Wesel,

...Genep,

Duysburg, &c.

...Orsoy,

...Caliar,

...Santen,

Meurs, C.

The Dutchy of Juliers,
Juliers, or Gulick,

Aken, or Aix la Chapelle,

...Duren.

The Dutchy of Berg,
...Duseldorp.

The County of Mark,
...Dortmund,

...Ʋnna,

...Ham,

...Soest.

The County of Lippe,
...Lippe,

...Dithmold,

...Horn,

...Lemgow.

The County of Ravensburg,
...Ravensburg,

...Hervoden,

...Bilevelt.

The County of Schaumberg,
...Schaumberg,

...Saxenhagen,

...Buckenburg,

...Oldendorp.

The Counties of
...Hoye,

...Diepholt,

...Lingen,

...Delmenhorst,

...Tecklenburg,

...Steinfurt,

...Ravestein.

The BISHOPRICK of MƲNSTER is stretched out on both sides the River Eems, from the Borders of the County of Emden on the North. to the Dutchy of Cleeve, County of Mark and Dutchy of Westphalia on the South, being in length near 100 miles. On the East is bounded by the Counties of Delmenhorst, & Diepholt, the Bishopricks of Osnabrug and Paderborn, and the Counties of Ravensburg and Lippe. On the West it hath the Province of Overissel, the County of Benthem, and the County of Zutphen,, containing in breadth in some parts 60, in others 40, and in some parts not above 20 miles. This Province is entirely subject to the Bishop, who is a Count of the Empire, and a powerful Prince, being able to maintain an Army of 15000 Men. The chief Cities and Towns in his Dominions are these, viz.
MƲNSTER, Monasterium, olim Miningroda, which is reckon'd the Capital of the Circle of Westphalia, takes its name from a Monastery built here by Charles the Great. It is pleasantly situated in a large Plain, on the Banks of the River Aa, which falls into the Eems, a little below the Town. This was an Imperial City and Hans-Town, but hath been subject to the Bishop since 1661, It is adorn'd with a stately Cathedral, a Colledge belonging to the Jesuits, and other fair Buildings; and is Fortified with a strong Castle and regular Out-works. An Insurrection of the Anabaptists here in the last Age was very remrakable, for these furious Enthusiasticks under the Conduct of a Sanctified Taylor, call'd John of Leyden, seized the City, turn'd out the Magistrates, and Lorded it at pleasure for a Year's time: But at last their doughty Prince was taken Prisoner, and duly rewarded with a publick Execution, whereby the publick Peace was restor'd in the Year 1534. And in this Age, this City hath been made famous by a memorable Treaty in it held, and a Peace concluded between the Emperor and Princes of Germany, which put an end to the Civil War first began between the Emperor and the Elector Palatine, but had at last engag'd most of the Princes, and miserably harras'd all Germany, from about the year 1618, till 1648. in which year this Westphalian Peace was made. Munster stands 90 miles South from the German Ocean, 60 miles West from the River Weser, as many East from the Rhine, and 120 North from the Maine, in the Lat. of 52 deg and Longit. 27 deg.
Kloppenburg stands at the head of the little River Soeste, near the borders of the County of Oldenburg, 65 miles North from Munster. It is a strong Fortified Town, but was taken by the Sweeds in 1635, and recover'd soon after by the Bishop, to whom it is still subject.
Vecht, the Capital of a small Barony, formerly govern'd by its own Lord, stands near the borders of the County of Deipholt, 15 miles South-east from Kloppenburg.
Meppen, a strong fortified Town, stands on the River Hase, where it falls into the Embs, 25 miles South-east from Kloppenburg. It was taken by the Dutch in 1587, but regain'd, and since together with Kloppenburg, and another Fort call'd Haselunnen, made over to the Bishop of Munster, by the Counts of Tecklenburg, to whom they then belonged.
Tilligt, which stands near the Embs, 10 miles West from Munster, was made famous by a Convention of the States of Mu•ste•, held in it, in 1532.
Koelsfeldt 〈◊〉 all Hanse-Town on the River Berkel, 20 miles 〈◊〉 from Munster.
The Count• of Embden, Emmerlandt, or EAST-FRIESLAND, is bounded on the North and East by the German Ocean, on the West by the County of Oldenburg, and on the South by the Bishoprick of Munster. This was part of the Kingdom of the ancient Frisons; but this part was made a Province of Germany by Charles the Great, and in 1453, Ʋlrick the Governor of it was made Count, and his Family have since been Princes of it to the present Count Christian Everard.
EMBDEN, Embda, Amasia aut Amisia, the Capital of East Friezland, is seated near the mouth of the River Embs, and on the Bay call'd Dollaert, at the distance of 25 miles from Groningen to the East, 60 from Bremen to the West, and 100 from Munster to the North. It hath a very convenient and deep Haven, and the People are of an industrious nature, it is therefore a place of good Trade, and much resorted to by Merchants Ships from Foreign parts: Our Merchants upon their removal from Antwerp, brought hither the Staple, or chief Ware-house for English Cloth, but being ill-us'd, remov'd it to Hamburg. The Houses here are generally well-built, and the Stadthuys, or Town-hall, is very Magnificent. This City was formerly subject to the Count of Friezland, but it hath thrown off his Authority, and is now a Free-State, under the Protection of the Hollanders. It is defended by two strong Castles, a Wall with Bastions and regular Bulwarks, and a double Ditch round about.
Norden, a pleasant Port-Town, about 15 miles North from Embden, is well-built, but not fortified. The Harbour is not deed enough to receive Ships of any great Burden.
Aurich in the middle between Embden and Norden, is the place where the Supream Court of Judicature for this County is held. Here is a Castle belonging to the Count, and a slight Wall round the Town.
Esens 12 miles North from Norden, is defended by a strong Castle.
Witmund is a good large Town, about 7 or 8 miles West from Esens, both formerly Baronies, but devolved on the Count of Friezland. This was once a place of good Trade, but now much declined.
Jever, about 10 miles West from Esens, is a fair Town, and gives Title to a Baron. It has a good strong Castle, and by means of the River Hoeck which falls into the Ocean 10 miles below, it hath acquir'd a pretty good Trade. This Barony is now subject to the Count of Oldenburg.
On the West of Embden lyes the County of OLDENBƲRG, a poor barren Country, extended along the Banks of the Weser, near 50 miles in length, and 25 in breadth. Its chief Town of the same name is seated on the River Hunte, at the distance of 35 miles from Embden to the West, and as many from Bremen to the East. It is well Fortified with Walls and Ditches, and a strong well-built Castle, which is the Seat of its Earl. The Houses are very mean, but the place hath a pretty good Trade by the means of the River, which falling into the Weser, Ships of Burden can come up into the Town.
DELMENHORST, the Capital of a small County, lying next to Oldenburg on the South-east, is a strong fortified Town, but otherwise not considerable. It stands upon the River Dilma, 16 miles West from Oldenburg, and 10 East from Bremen.
DIEPHLOT, a small County, lyes on the South of Delmenhorst, and between Munster on the West, and Hoye on the East. It is now subject to the Duke of Lunenburg. The chief Town of the same name is seated near the Lake call'd Dummor, out of which the River Hunte arises, and passes by this Town, which is distant 40 miles from Oldenburg to the South, and 35 from the Weser to the West.
HOYE, a County on the Banks of the Weser, East of Diepholt, and South of Bremen, was Govern'd by its own Lords, till 1582, when the last Count dying, it was parted among several Princes. Hoye, the chief Town, (a small place, but well Fortified) with Nieuburg, Lavenaw, and Bruchausen, became subject to the Duke of Lunenbrug: The Forts of Soltzenow, Ezenburg and 5 more Towns to the House of Brunswick; and Freudenburg and Ʋcht to the Landgrave of Hesse.
MINDEN, the Capital of a small Principality: is a large rich Hans-Town, standing on the Weser, 55 miles from Bremen to the South, and 35 from Osnabrug to the East. This Principality was given to the Elector of Brandenburg at the Treaty of Munster. It is a good Country, and produces plenty of Corn; the extent of it is about 25 miles in length, and 20 in breadth.
The Bishoprick of OSNABRƲCK lyes between Minden on the East, and Munster on the West, Diepholt on the North, and Ravensburg on the South, and in the middle between the two Rivers Weser and Embs. Its extent from North to South, is 45 miles, and from East to West 25 miles. It is a fruitful Country, and subject to its Bishop, who is a Count of the Empire.
Osnabruck, Osenburg, Osnabrugum, aut Osnabrucum, the Capital, is subject to the Bishop, though call'd a Hans Town. It stands upon the River Hase in a fruitful Valley, 30 miles from Munster to the North-east, and 60 from Oldenburg to the South; it has a Fort for its defence call'd S. Peter's Castle. This City was Honour'd with a Treaty of Peace between the Emperor and the King of Sweden, in the year 1648, wherein an agreement was made concerning all the Affairs of the Protestants, and the Bishopricks made alternative, between the Roman Catholicks and Lutherans, in favour of the House of Brunswick.
Iburg, stands about 12 miles South from the City, and is the place where the Bishop resides.
TECKLENBOƲRG, a strong Castle and Fort, stands about 10 miles West from Osnabrug, and is the Capital of a small County, formerly under its own Counts; now subject to that of Benthem.
SCAƲMBERG, or Schaumburg, an old Castle on the top of a Hill on the North-side of the Weser, 45 miles from Hoye to the South, and 50 from Osnabrug, and 16 from Minden to the East, gives name to a County of 25 miles extent from North to South, and 18 from East to West, which lies on the East of Minden, and South of Hoye; the River Weser passes cross it; besides which it is water'd with the Rivers Hannel, Awe, Caspaw and Exter; these yield the Inhabitants abundance of Fish, and the Country plenty of Corn, Hay, Timber and Venison: Here are also Quarries of Stone, which they send abroad, and some Mines of Allum, Coal, &c. This County is subject to the house of Lippe.
Saxenhagen, or Sassenhagen, a Fort and Town in the most Northern part of this County.
Buckenburg, the Seat of the second Branch of the House of Lippe, who are thence stil'd Counts of Lippe Buckenburg.
Oldenburg, on the banks of the Weser, a small but strong Town, 5 miles from Schaumberg; it repell'd the Imperial Forces in 1633, but was taken by them in 1639. The Counts of Lippe have a Custom-house here to receive Duty paid by all Vessels that pass this way.
LIPPE, or Liepstadt, is a very strong and well fortified Town, seated on the River Lippe, 45 miles from Osnabrug to the South, and 35 from Munster to the East. This place was besieg'd by the French in the War of 1674, but defended it self so well that they were forc'd to raise the Siege. It is the Capital of a County which lies between Ravensburg to the North, and Paderborn to the South, a narrow Tract of Land, in length from East to West about 50 miles, and in breadth 15 or 20. Its Counts are of a very ancient Family, and are not only Lords of this Country, but of several other places in the Neighbourhood.
Diethmold, or Dietmelle, as 'tis writ in the Maps, 30 miles from Lippe to the North-east, and 25 from Minden to the South, is the place of Residence of the Eldest House of Lippe, but not considerable on any other account.
Horn, an old Town near Diethmold, once subject to Counts of its own, now to the Count of Lippe.
Lemgow, a rich and neat Hanse-Town on the River Pega, 7 miles North from Dietmelle, once subject to the Bishop of Paderborn, by whom made over to the Counts of Lippe, on whom it hath still some dependence, but hath obtained many Privileges.
The Bishoprick of PADERBORN is bounded on the North with Lippe, on the South with Hesse Cassel and Waldeck, and on the West with Munster and Westphalia, and contains in it 24 Market-Towns, 20 Castles, 54 Parishes, and 16 Monasteries, which are all subject to the Bishop.
PADERBORN, Paderborna, aut Padrabranna, stands near the source of the River Lippe, from whence it is distant only 16 miles to the South, 30 from Corway, 45 from Cassel to the North-west, and 50 from Munster to the South-east, and is handsomly built and well fortified. The Emperor Charlemagne made it an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Mentz, and held a Convention or Parliament there, A. C. 777. It was a free City, and one of the Hanseatick Society; but the Bishop hath been Temporal as well as Spiritual Lord of it and of the whole Diocess, every since the year 1604. Theodore of Furstemburg, Bishop of Paderborn, built the adjacent Castle of Neuhause or Nienhus near the confluence of the Lippe and the Alme, A. D. 1590, which serves as an Episcopal Palace; he also founded an University in the City, in 1592.
Lippesburg, about 5 miles from Paderb•rn, standing on the edge of a great Heath call'd die Senne, has a stately Castle belonging to the Dean and Chapter of Paderborn, who are Lords of the Town. The River Lippe springs near this Castle.
Warburg, a Hanse-Town, is seated in a fruitful Country on the River Dymel, 25 miles South-east from Paderborn. Some neighbouring Mines of Iron and Lead afford this Town a good Trade.
Between the Bishoprick of Paderborn and the River Weser, lies the Territory of the Abbey of CORBEY, founded by the Emperor Lewis I. It is about 15 or 16 miles in length, and in it, besides other Towns, stands
Hoxter, a fair City on the Weser, 25 miles North from Cassel, and directly West from Paderborn, which by the means of the River, is a place of good Trade.
Besides this Territory, the Island of Rugen in Pomerania was given to this Abbey by the Emperor Lotharius, A. 844.
And now having survey'd all the Countries on the East of Westphalia, we must cross Munster, and before we come to Cleeve and its Dependencies, view
The Earldom of BENTHEM, which lies on the West-side of the Bishoprick of Munster, stretching out into the Province of Overissel, wherewith it is surrounded on all the other sides. It is in length near 40 miles and in breadth about 15. The chief Town
Benthem, stands near the South-border of the County, 30 miles North-east from Munster, 36 East from Osnabrug, and 40 West from Deventer. It is fortified and has a Castle, but is a place of no Trade, being seated in a Wood and far from a River.
LINGEN, a strong Town on the River Embs, 40 miles North from Munster, is subject to the Prince of Orange; tho' the County, of which its Capital, be under the Bishop of Munster.
STEINFƲRT or Borchstenford, is also a small County, lying South of Benthem, to whose Earl it is now subject, tho' formerly it had Lords of its own. The chief Town stands 20 miles North from Munster.
The Dutchies of CLEEVE and JƲLIERS, with their dependencies the Counties of MARCK, BERG, RAVENSPERG and RAVENSTEIN, lie mostly on the banks of the Rhine, but are so intermixt with other Countries, that it is difficult to give the particular Limits. In general, they are bounded on the North by Guelderland and Munster, on the South by the Archbishoprick of Trier, on the East by Hesse and Westphalia, and on the West by Brabant, Liege and Limburg. The principal Rivers here are the Rhine, the Roer and the Lippe; which two latter fall into the Rhine, the first at Duisburg, and the last at Wesel. The Air is cold, but the Soil is fruitful in Corn, and yields some Pasture.
The Right of succeeding to these Territories upon the death of John-William the last Duke, without Issue, in 1609. gave occasion to great Commotions in Germany; for the Elector of Brandenburg, the Duke of Neuburg, the Duke of Deux-ponts, the Duke of Saxony and the Marquess of Burgaw, having all married Sisters or Daughters of the Sisters of John-William, all claim'd to succeed. But the Elector of Brandenburg and the Duke of Neuburg only, maintain'd their Claim by Force of Arms; the former, by the Assistance of the Hollanders, and the latter by that of the Spaniards. Until, at length, an Agreement was made, That Juliers and Berg, with the small Territory of Ravenstin should be granted to the Duke of Neuburg, and that the Elector of Brandenburg should for ever enjoy the Dutchy of Cleeve, and the Counties of Marck and Ravensperg; under which Princes they at present remain.
The Dutchy of Cleeve is a Country generally woody and hilly, but however produces divers sorts of Grain. It lies on both sides of the Rhine, between Munster on the East, Guelderland on the West, Zutphen on the North, and Juliers on the South, extending about 40 miles from North to South, and 25 from East to West.
The City CLEEVE, call'd Cleef by the Germans, and Clivia aut Clivis in Lat. which gives name to the Country, (a very ancient Place, and supposed to have been founded by the Romans) stands on a Hill, among craggy Cliffs, between the Rhine and the Maes, about 12 miles South-east from Nimeguen, 70 West from Munster, and 60 North-west from Cologn. It is small, but well Peopled; near it are seen an old square Tower and other remains of Buildings, which shew it to have been formerly much larger. The Castle is old and not very strong, but pleasantly seated, and affords a delightful Prospect from the top of Swan-tower. The private Houses are but mean, and the chief publick ones are the great Church and two Monasteries. On the West-side of the Town is a very pleasant Park call'd Prince Maurice's, wherein are many Ponds and Water-works, above which is the high Hill call'd Steenberg, from whence Ʋtrecht with 4 more Cities, and several great Towns may be seen, through 12 Visto's or strait Walks cut through the Wood. On the East of the Town stands the Prince's House, in which are many Rarities and Monuments of Antiquity.
Embrick, on the Eastern banks of the Rhine, 8 miles from Cleeve to the East, and
Rees, on the banks of the same River, about 10 miles higher, are both well fortified.
Gennep, at the mouth of the Nierse, where it falls into the Maes, near the borders of Guelderland, 10 miles South-west from Cleeve, was anciently a large and populous City, and well fortified; but in the late Wars its Fortifications were demolished, and the Town is much decreas'd and now of small moment, tho' conveniently seated for Trade.
Goch on the Nierse, 6 or 7 miles above Gennep, a small Town of no great Strength nor Traffick. All these four, tho' seated in the Dutchy of Cleeve, have been taken from it at several times by the Dutch, and are now subject to them.
Calcar, a place of great Strength, and built by the Dukes of Cleeve for a Refuge against any sudden approach of an Enemy, is seated near the Western bank of the Rhine over against Rees, about 10 miles distant from Cleeves to the South-east. It quickly grew populous and rich by a Linnen-trade which they managed, and since they have been noted for making Malt, which is now a great Trade in this Town. The Town-house, S. Nicholas Church and the Monastery of the Dominicans, are stately Buildings.
Santen, on the Western Bank of the Rhine, is a Town of very great Antiquity, but not considerable on any other account; it is said to be the place where the Theban Legion suffer'd Martyrdom under the Emperor Maximianus, and therefore call'd Santen, Holy.
Wesel, call'd Nether-Wesel for distinction, seated in a fair Plain on the Eastern Bank of the Rhine near the mouth of the River Lippe, 25 miles distant from Cleeve to the South-west, and near 10 from Santen to the West, is a strong, populous and well-built City, reckon'd the largest and best in this Dutchy. It is a Hanse-town and was Imperial, but exempted by the Dukes of Cleeve, of whose Dukedom it was always a Member. It was taken and plunder'd by the French in the late War, and the Burghers, being rich, they exacted intolerable Contributions from them. Here is an Hospital for decrepit, old People; founded by H. Oliver Baers, and nobly endow'd by him and his Son.
Duisburg, a small City on the Roer, which a little lower falls into the Rhine, and on the Confines of Cleeve and Bergen, 15 miles above Wesel, 35 South-west from Cleeve, 15 from Duseldorp, and 35 from Cologn to the North-east. It was once an Imperial City, but now subject to the Elector of Brandenburg, as Duke of Cleeve, tho' the Burghers still claim their former Liberty. Here were formerly Fairs held yearly, which brought great Trade to the Town. An University is establish'd here by the D. of Brandenburg, which was open'd Oct. 14. 1655.
Meurs, a small City, the Capital of an Earldom, lying between the Dutchy of Cleeves and the Archbishoprick of Cologn, belongs to the Prince of Orange, to whom it was given in 1600, by the last Countess; but is claimed by the Duke of Brandenburg, as part of the Dutchy of Cleeve. In this Earldom stands also
Orsoy, a small but strong Town, taken from the Dutch in 1634, by the Prince of Orange, and by the French in 1672, but abandon'd by them in 1674.
The Dukedom of JƲLIERS lies between the Rivers Maes and Rhine, bounded on the North by the Spanish Gueldre and Cleeve, on the South by Luxemburg and Trier, on the East by the Bishoprick of Cologn, and on the West by Liege and Limburg, extending about 60 miles in length and 30 in breadth. The Country is fruitful in Corn, Hay and Wood, and yields also Woad for Dying, whereof the Inhabitants make great profit; and an excellent Breed of Horses.
JƲLIERS, or GƲLICK, as the Inhabitants call it, Juliacum, the Capital of this Dutchy, is an ancient City seated on the River Roer, at the distance of 50 miles from Cleeve to the South, 25 from Cologn to the West, and 25 from Maestricht to the East. It is a small place, but neatly built, the Houses are of Brick, and the Streets broad and even: The Citadel is large, and render'd as strong as the best Ingeneers of Germany could make it: Notwithstanding which, it has been often taken in the present Age, but at last restor'd to the Duke of Neuburg, according to the Articles of the Pyrenean Treaty.
Aken or Aquisgranum, call'd AIX LA CHAPPELLE by the French, anciently a very considerable Place, having been the Seat of the Emperor Charlemaigne, stands near the borders of this Dutchy of Juliers and that of Limburg; it is distant 15 miles from Juliers to the South-west, 16 from Maestricht to the East, and 36 from Cologn to the West. It is an imperial and free City, and a very large beautiful Place; and by reason of the hot Baths in it which cause a great Resort thither, very populous and rich. The chief publick Buildings are, the Collegiat Church and the Senate-house, the former was built by Charles the Great, who was buried in it, and is a very curious piece of Architecture of the Gothick Order: At the West-end stands a high Steeple with several Pyramids, and in the middle a Cupola, the inside whereof is adorn'd with a great number of Pillars of white Marble and of Brass gilt; also many gilded Statues, Brass-doors and Partitions; and the Roof is beautified with Mosaick Work. In this Church are kept many Relicks, which are visited by zealous Pilgrims. The Senate-house is a very stately Fabrick, built A.D. 1533, and adorn'd with the Statues of all the Emperors; the upper Story of it is only one Room of 162 foot in length and 60 in breadth, wherein the Emperors used to receive their first Crown of Iron, and entertain the Electors and others that attended at their Coronations,
The Baths are much esteem'd for their Virtue in curing Chronical Distempers. It is said they were first found out by Serenius Granius, Lieutenant General of Gallia Belgica, about the year of Christ, 53, who beautified them and built a Palace near 'em. But the Place being afterwards destroy'd by Attila, the Baths lay buried till the time of Charles the Great, whose Horse (as he was Hunting here) accidentally strook his Foot into one of them, which the Emperor observing, caused them to be search'd out and rebuilt, and being much taken with the pleasure of the place, built a Royal Palace and a large Town. Of these Baths there are Three, the chief of which is the very same that Charles the Great used often with his Sons and Attendants, to swim in; it is now divided into many Apartments: These Waters rise so hot, that they cool them in 12 Houses before they are used. There are also others in the other part of the Town, but not so hot. Near the Town are many Mines of Lead, Sulphur, Vitriol and Iron, &c. In 1656 a great Fire happen'd in this City, which burnt down 20 Churches and 5000 Dwellings, (by which the bigness of this Town may be guess'd at) which were quickly rebuilt, and it is now more large and beautiful. In 1668, a Treaty was held here, and Peace concluded betwixt the Kings of France and Spain.
In the Village Borsel or Porsetum, about a Furlong South from Aken, are many other hot Springs, which are by Pipes convey'd into 28 Baths; these Waters are even hotter than those at Aken.
Duren on the River Roer, 15 miles East from Aix la Chappelle, and 10 South from Juliers, is a small City, the Building neat and uniform, with a clear Stream of Water running in the middle. It was made Imperial by Charles IV. and burnt by Charles V. but being rebuilt, is now subject to the Duke of Neuburg. This place pretends to great Antiquity, and according to Cluverius, it was the ancient Marcodurum.
DƲSELDORP, Dusseldorpium, is a very pleasant and well fortified City on the banks of the Rhine, 5 miles below Cologn to the North, and as many from Juliers to the North-east. It is the Metropolis of the Dukedom of BERG, which is extended along the banks of the Rhine, about 50 miles in length, and in breadth about 20, being craggy and mountainous, and therefore not very full of Inhabitants. The City is pleasantly seated upon the Rhine, and adorn'd with some publick Buildings, which make a delicate shew to the River, especially the Palace of the Duke of Neuburg who commonly resides here. It was anciently an Imperial City, and a place of much Traffick, and the yearly Fairs, since remov'd to Francfurt, were kept in it.
DORTMOND, Tremonia aut Dormania, is seated on the River Empser, almost in the midst between those of the Lippe and the Roer, scarcely distant 6 miles from both, as also from the Territories of the Bishoprick of Munster to the South; 30 from the City of Munster, 26 from Soest to the West, and 35 from Duseldorp to the North-east. It is a free Imperial City, and one of the Hanse-Towns under the Protection of the Elector of Brandenburg; and is a small, but rich and populous Place. It is the Metropolis of the County of MARK, a Country of about 40 miles in length and 20 in breadth, bounded on the North by the Rivers Empser and Lippe, which part it from Munster, on the West and South by the Dutchy of Bergen, and on the East by Westphalia. The Soil is like that of Westphalia, not very fruitful.
Ʋnna, a poor Hanse-Town, but formerly a place of good Trade, till the War between the Dukes of Brandenburg and Neuburg for the Right of these Countries, disturb'd and spoil'd it, stands 10 miles from Dortmund to the East.
Ham, another poor Hanse-Town, stands 10 miles from Ʋnna to the North, on the Road between Holland and Brandenburg. The Country about it yields store of Corn, Hemp and Flax.
Soest, a large and populous City, seated in the neck of Land belonging to this County that shoots into Westphalia, 30 miles from Dortmund to the East, and as many from Munster to the South. It is esteem'd the largest City in Westphalia, except Munster, fortified with a double Wall, whereon are 30 Watch-Towers, and a large deep Ditch. In it are 10 Parishes and many Churches, one of which is a Collegiate, and under the Jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Cologn. This City has many Privileges and a Court of Judicature within it self, but under the Protection of the Elector of Brandenburg, to whom this County is subject.
RAVENSBƲRG, Ravensberga, a small Town, the Principal of a County, lying between Osnab•ug, Minden, Munster and Lippe, stands on a Hill at the distance of 16 miles from Osnabrug to the South, about 25 from Paderborn to the North-west, and 30 from Munster to the East toward Minden.
RAVESTEIN, Ravasteinum, is a small Town seated on the River Maes, 20 miles West from Cleeve, 20 North-east from Bolduc, and 15 South-west from Nimeguen; the Capital of a small Territory bearing the Title of a Lordship, appertaining to the Jurisdiction of the D. of Neuburg, but is at present possess'd by the Hollanders.
The Bishoprick of Liege is usually reckon'd part of this Circle, but being spoken of already in the Description of the Netherlands, it must be omitted here.

@@ Line 3,075: / Line 3,075: @@
 Clagenfurt, the neatest Town in Carinthia, built in a square Figure, and enclos'd with a Wall; here is a handsom Piazza, in the middle of which stands a noble Fountain, over which is a Dragon and an Hercules before it carv'd in Stone. This Town is distant 10 miles from S. Veit to the North, •20 from Villach to the West, and about 6 from the Save to the South.
-The Dutchy of CARNIOLA, in High-Dutch, Hortzogthum Krayn; with WINDISHMARCH and the County of GORITIA.
-This Province is bounded on the North with Carinthia and Cilley, on the South by a ridge of Mountains, that part it from the Territories of the State of Venice, on the East by Croatia, and on the West by Carinthia. The length of it from East to West, is about 110 miles, and its breadth 40 miles. It is very Mountainous, but has pleasant Valleys which yield store of Corn and Wine. The River Save hath its source in the Western part, and runs quite thro' it, besides which here are other good Rivers.
-* Carniola, divided into Upper
-** ...Laubach.
-** ...Crainburg.
-** ...Bischoffslach.
-* and Lower; hath these considerable Towns,
-** ...Oberlabach.
-** ...Zircknitz.
-* In the Windischmarch, or Marquisate of Windes, which is the South east part of Carniola.
-** ...Metling.
-** ...Rudelphsworth.
-* The County of Goritia, on the South-west of Carniola.
-** ...Goritz.
-* To these may be added part of Istria, wherein stand
-** S. Viet am Flaum.
-* And the Territory of
-** ...Trieste.
-LAƲBACH, Labacum, aut Labiana, the Capital of Carniola, stands on the banks of a small River of the same name, which falls into the Save 10 miles below it, and is distant 30 miles from the River Drave to the South, 50 from the Confines of Croatia to the West, and 35 from Trieste upon the Gulph of Venice to the North. It is a well-built City and very populous, the See of a Bishop, and hath a large Castle for its defence, but it is commanded by a Hill, and the Town is not very strong; however endured a Siege in 1440, when Frederick III. being Crown'd at Aken, his Brother Albert and Count Ʋlric attack'd this City, but it held out till the Emperor came to its Relief.
-Crainburg, seated on the banks of the Save, 20 miles from Lauback North-west, and 24 from Clagenfurt to the South-east, on the top of a Hill, and fortified with a strong Castle. The Town has three Churches in it, and in the Suburbs is a Monastery of Capuchins. It once gave title to a Marquess.
-Lack, or Bishops-Lack, is a handsom well-built fortified City, standing upon a small River, 10 miles South from Crainburg, and 20 East from Laubach. It is subject to the Bishop of Freysing, to whom the Emperor Henry III. gave it, and the Governor of it is his Lieutenant. This Town was plunder'd and burnt in 1451, since when it has been Re-built and better fortified.
-Zirknitz, a Town of no great bulk, nor considerable but for the Lake near it, to which it gives name.
-This Lake is very wonderful; it is about 4 German miles in length, and 2 in breadth, and from September to June, is full of Water, but the other six Months is quite dry. In June the Water descends thro' many large Holes in the bottom, (at which time the Country People catch abundance of Fish, by laying Nets over the Holes) leaving the bottom quite dry, so that the neighbouring People sow Corn in it, which they have time to reap, and afterwards to put in their Cattle, and let in the Deer and Hares from the neighbouring Forests, which they Hunt in this Lake, and all before the Water returns; for the Earth is exceeding Prolifick: And in September the Water returns, spouting up with great Violence, and to a great height out of these Holes, and soon makes that a Sea, that was before a Field for Corn, Pasture and Hunting; and this happens constantly every Year, and at this certain time.
-Ober-Laubach, about 16 miles West from the Laubach, already described, and on the same River with that, is considerable by being a Mart for Italian Goods, which are brought hither in great quantities, and sent to all parts of Germany.
-Metling, Metulum, the chief Town of the Windischmark, stands near the Frontiers of Croatia, 35 miles South from Cilley, 25 East from the Lake of Zirknitz, and 25 North from the Gulph of Venice. It is a place of no great Consideration: The chief Trade of the Inhabitants lies in Swine, which they fatten in two neighbouring Woods of Chesnut-trees and Oaks. In the Year 1431 this Town was surpriz'd by the Turks and the Inhabitants massacred. And again, in 1578, it was plunder'd by 'em.
-Rudolphworth or Newstat, stands upon the River Gurk 12 miles North-west from Metling: It is a very ancient Town, and honour'd with great Priviledges, which were given them by the Emperor Frederick IV. about the Year 1435. for having oppos'd Albert of Austria and Ʋlric Count of Cilly. This Town is famous for the best Wine in these Parts.
-Goritia, a small County in Friuli, is subject to the Emperor. The rest of the Province being subject to the Venetians, shall be describ'd with the rest of Italy. The Chief Town is,
-Gortz or Goritz seated upon the River Lizonzo, 20 miles from the Gulph of Venice and 15 from Aquileia to the North, 50 from Clagenfurt to the South, and as much from Laubach to the West. The Town is old, and by some thought to be the old Roman Norricia or Noreia. Dieterich, King of the Goths vanquish'd Odoacer, King of the Heruli, near this Place. The Sclavonian Tongue, spoken in these Provinces, reaches no farther West than this Town, and here the common People speak a corrupt Italian. It was take by the Venetians in 1608. but regain'd by the Emperor the year after; and in 1616 they attempted to surprize it, but were forced to retreat.
-Trieste, the Chief Town of the small Province of Karstia, stands on the Adriatique Sea or Gulph of Venice, 30 miles from Aquileia to the East, at the bottom of a Bay, to which it gives Name. It is a small, but strong and populous Place, and a Bishop's See, under the Patriarch of Aquileia; it has a large but unsafe Harbor. The Emperor took this City from the Venetians, A. D. 1507. and has been ever since in possession of it.
-S. Viet am Flaum, tho' situate in Istria, which is accounted part of Italy, yet being subject to the House of Austria, must be described here. It is a strong Town, having a Castle, besides Walls and Ditches for its Defence, and is seated on the Adriatick Sea, 30 miles South from Czernickz, and 40 South-west from Metling, and at the Mouth of the River Flaum. The Italian Tongue is here spoken in its Purity, and therefore the Austrian Gentry send their Children here to be taught it. In the Suburbs stand a Monastery, famous for a Treaty of Peace concluded in it between the Emperor and the Venetians, in the Year 1618.
 The County of TYREL, with the Bishoprick of BRIXEN.

Germany: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 05:54, 31 January 2025

Contents

Etymology and other names

History

Geography

Maps

Demographics

Economy

Culture

Government

Military

Education

Transportation

Notable People

Sources from old books

1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.

1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome.

1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.

1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.

CHAP. II. Of the Spiritual ELECTORATES.

SECT. I. The Electorate of COLOGNE.

SECT. II. The Arch-bishoprick and Electorate of TRIER.

CHAP. III. HESSEN, Hassia.

CHAP. IV. FRANCONIA, Franconia.

CHAP. V. The PALATINATE of the RHINE, Palatinus Rheni, aut Palatinus Inferior; in the German Language, Pfaltz auf Rhein, or Nider Pfaltz.

CHAP. VI. ALSATIA, Alsatia, in High-Dutch Elsalz.

CHAP. VII. SCHWABEN, Suevia.

CHAP. VIII. The Circle of BAVARIA.

CHAP. X. The Kingdom of BOHEMIA, with the Dukedom of SILESIA and Marquisate of MORAVIA.

CHAP. XI. The Marquisate and Electorate of BRANDENBURG, with MAGDEBURG and HALBERSTADT; and the Dukedom of POMERANIA.

CHAP. XII. SAXONY.

SECT. I. A short Account of the History of Saxony in General.

SECT. II. The Ʋpper SAXONY.

SECT. III. The Lower SAXONY.

CHAP. XIII. The Circle of WESTPHALIA.

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Germany: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 05:54, 31 January 2025

Etymology and other names

History

Geography

Maps

Demographics

Economy

Culture

Government

Military

Education

Transportation

Notable People

Sources from old books

1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.

1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome.

1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.

1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.

CHAP. II. Of the Spiritual ELECTORATES.

SECT. I. The Electorate of COLOGNE.

SECT. II. The Arch-bishoprick and Electorate of TRIER.

CHAP. III. HESSEN, Hassia.

CHAP. IV. FRANCONIA, Franconia.

CHAP. V. The PALATINATE of the RHINE, Palatinus Rheni, aut Palatinus Inferior; in the German Language, Pfaltz auf Rhein, or Nider Pfaltz.

CHAP. VI. ALSATIA, Alsatia, in High-Dutch Elsalz.

CHAP. VII. SCHWABEN, Suevia.

CHAP. VIII. The Circle of BAVARIA.

CHAP. X. The Kingdom of BOHEMIA, with the Dukedom of SILESIA and Marquisate of MORAVIA.

CHAP. XI. The Marquisate and Electorate of BRANDENBURG, with MAGDEBURG and HALBERSTADT; and the Dukedom of POMERANIA.

CHAP. XII. SAXONY.

SECT. I. A short Account of the History of Saxony in General.

SECT. II. The Ʋpper SAXONY.

SECT. III. The Lower SAXONY.

CHAP. XIII. The Circle of WESTPHALIA.

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