Principality of Anhalt-Zerbst

Anhalt-Zerbst was a principality located in Germany. It was established for the first time in 1252 following the partition of the principality of Anhalt. The capital of the state was located at Zerbst. Anhalt-Zerbst ceased to exist in 1396 when it was partitioned between Anhalt-Dessau and Anhalt-Köthen.

It was recreated in 1544 when Anhalt-Dessau was partitioned. The second incarnation lost a lot of territory in 1603 when it was partitioned for a second time with some of its territory being given to Anhalt-Dessau, Anhalt-Bernburg, Anhalt-Plötzkau and Anhalt-Köthen. Anhalt-Zerbst lost more of its territory in 1667 with Anhalt-Mühlingen and Anhalt-Dornburg being created. In 1796, the Principality of Anhalt-Zerbst came to an end with its territory being annexed by Anhalt-Dessau.