German Galatz
City (pop., 2002: 298,584), southeastern Romania.
Located at the confluence of the Danube and Siret rivers, it was occupied by the Turks from the early 16th century until 1829; its growth was encouraged by its status as a free port (183783). During World War II, retreating German troops devastated the town and reduced the population, substantially Jewish, to less than half. Extensively rebuilt, it is one of Romania's chief ports and the site of the country's largest shipyard.