Cottbus, also Kottbus, city in east central Germany, in the state of Brandenburg, on the Spree River, near the border with Poland. The city is an important transportation and industrial center; manufactures include electricity (generated from local lignite), machinery, electrical equipment, and textiles. Industry in Cottbus has caused serious air pollution problems. Cottbus was first mentioned in the 12th century and passed to Prussia in 1815. Spremberg Tower, part of its medieval fortifications, is a noted landmark. Population (1997) 125,643.
