Sternberg was founded by Prince Pribislav in 1248/50, granted Parchim town charter, and became the seat of the territorial rulers in 1256, especially valued by Henry the (Mecklenburgian!) Lion. Typical of many towns founded at that time is the checkerboard layout of the streets, with the market square at its center, the town hall, and the church. The church is dedicated to Mary and Nicholas. It is a five-bay hall church with a straight choir and tower on a square floor plan.