Where does the name Spandau come from?

The name "Spandau" has a fascinating history, stemming from Slavic origins. It is believed to be derived from the Slavic word "Spandow" or "Spandava", which likely meant "place of a ford" or "place where a path crosses a river".

Here's a breakdown of the etymology:

* "Span" or "Spand" likely referred to a ford or crossing point.

* "Dow" or "ava" is a common Slavic suffix signifying a location or place.

Therefore, the name Spandau, originally a Slavic settlement, reflects its geographic location near a river crossing point.

Historical Context:

* The area around Spandau was settled by Slavic tribes before the 12th century.

* The name "Spandau" was first documented in the 13th century.

* The settlement later became part of the Brandenburg Margraviate and eventually the Kingdom of Prussia.

Today, Spandau is a borough in the city of Berlin, Germany. While its historical origins remain evident in the name, the area has undergone significant transformations throughout the centuries.