Havel

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Havel-Blankenfoerde-11-IV-2007-247

Fürstenberg-Schwedtsee II

RK 0408 5880 Hastbrücke

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Schleuse Spandau

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Wannsee

Havel is a river in eastern Germany, flowing through the federal states of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Brandenburg, Berlin, and Saxony-Anhalt. It is a right tributary of the Elbe river and is approximately 325 kilometers long. However, including its longest source river's length, the total river system is about 1,000 kilometers long, making it one of the significant river systems in the region.

The Havel river originates in the Mecklenburg Lake District, near the town of Ankershagen, and flows southward through a series of lakes. The river's course takes it through several important cities and towns, including Neuruppin, Brandenburg an der Havel, Potsdam, and Berlin, where it passes through the western part of the city and meets the Spree river. The Havel's confluence with the Elbe river is near the town of Havelberg in Saxony-Anhalt.

The Havel river basin plays a crucial role in the ecology and economy of the region. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a vital waterway for environmental conservation efforts. The river and its surrounding landscapes are popular for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, contributing to the local tourism industry.

In terms of navigation, the Havel has been an essential waterway for centuries, facilitating the transport of goods and people. It is part of the Federal Waterways in Germany and is connected to a network of canals, including the Havel-Oder-Wasserstraße (Havel-Oder Waterway), which links it to the Oder river and the Baltic Sea. The river's navigability has been enhanced through various engineering projects over the years, including the construction of locks and canals, to accommodate modern shipping requirements.

The Havel river also holds historical significance, with its banks witnessing numerous events that have shaped the region's history. The city of Brandenburg an der Havel, for example, was a crucial center during the Middle Ages, and the river's strategic importance was recognized by various powers throughout history.

In recent years, efforts have been made to improve the Havel's water quality and restore its natural flow in certain areas. These environmental initiatives aim to balance the river's ecological health with its economic and recreational uses.