SZCZECINEK

German Neustettin, town, Koszalin wojewdztwo (province), northwestern Poland. The town was originally a Slavic tribal stronghold; it received town rights from the Duke of Pomerania in 1310. In the 17th century, Szczecinek was invaded by Brandenburg. Half of the town was destroyed during World War II. Szczecinek is the commercial centre for the surrounding district; its industry includes dairying, lumber milling, brewing, and food processing. Scenic environs and the boating harbour attract tourists, as do such sites as the Gothic St. Nicholas Church (16th century). Pop. (1991 est.) 41,500.