Ludolf-König-Weg

Ludolf König von Wattzau was a Grand Master of the Teutonic Order from 1342 to 1345. Before his appointment as Grand Master, he served as the Komtur (Commander) of various regions, gaining significant administrative and military experience. His leadership coincided with a period of internal challenges and external conflicts for the Teutonic Order, particularly in the Baltics.

König von Wattzau's tenure as Grand Master was marked by tensions with the Livonian Order, a branch of the Teutonic Knights, and ongoing territorial disputes. Due to health issues, he resigned from his position in 1345, leaving behind a complex legacy of both military and diplomatic efforts within the Order's history.

The Teutonic Order played a crucial role in shaping the history of Gdańsk (Danzig) during the Middle Ages. After capturing the city in 1308, the Order established Gdańsk as part of their territory, leading to its fortification and development as a significant trading port within the Hanseatic League. The Teutonic Order’s rule influenced the architecture, economy, and political landscape of Gdańsk, fostering the city’s growth into a prosperous hub for commerce. Their control lasted until the city was regained by the Polish Crown in 1454.

Ludolf König von Wattzau himself ordered the fortification of Danzig in 1342.

On January 9th, 1912, this street was named after him. After the war, it was renamed to Liegnitzer Strasse (ulica legnicka).