Aurich

Aurich's historic centre reflects its role as a residence of the rulers of East Frisia. Count Edzard II moved his court from Emden to Aurich in 1561. The former court stables on Schlossplatz retain a connection with that period, while the present palace was largely constructed between 1851 and 1855 on the site of the earlier Cirksena castle. The buildings therefore record successive stages of the town's political history.

A different tradition of government is commemorated at the Upstalsboom in the district of Rahe. Representatives of the Frisian communities assembled there to maintain peace and organise mutual defence. A stone pyramid erected in 1833 marks the site. Interpreted by Aurich's historical museum, it remains a tangible reminder of the regional tradition known as Frisian freedom.