“Müggel,” a word possibly rooted in ancient fog, shrouds our destination in mystery. Today, we stand at the edge of the Müggelsee und Fredersdorfer Mühlenfließ, a protected natural area. The Müggelsee itself is Berlin’s largest lake. It sprawls across 7.4 square kilometers.
Imagine this: It is a place where the Spree River gently flows. The river connects the smaller Kleiner Müggelsee. The Kleiner Müggelsee covers only 0.16 square kilometers.
The Müggelsee’s deepest point reaches 8 meters. Nearby, the Müggelberge hills rise to 115 meters. These hills formed during the Pleistocene epoch. They remain from the Weichselian glaciation.
The Muggelturm stands on Kleiner Müggelberg. The first tower was built in 1889. A fire destroyed it in 1958. The current tower was erected in 1960 and 1961. From its heights, you can see the lake and the forests. The Berlin skyline is also visible.
The Friedrichshagen waterworks uses the Müggelsee. It gets most of its water from the lake. Deep wells near the banks also contribute. They filter water from the banks. Groundwater only plays a small role.
The name “Müggel” has a long history. In 1394, it appeared as “den Tyns in der Miggel”. By 1487, it was “von der Miggelseh”. Gerhard Schlimpert rejects the Slavic origin of “Müggel”. He suggests a pre-Slavic, Germanic root instead. This root might be “migh-“, meaning “fog” or “cloud”.
Interestingly, a lake on Saturn’s moon Titan is named after Müggelsee. The International Astronomical Union made it official in 2013. That lake consists of liquid methane and ethane.
The Müggelsee area offers more than just scenic views. The Muggelturm is a great destination for excursions. It offers panoramic views of the Großer Müggelsee. One can also admire the forests. On a clear day, the Berlin city center looms in the distance. The tower reopened in 2018 after renovations. Climbing its 126 steps is a rewarding experience.
The Müggelberge hills are ideal for outdoor activities. Runners enjoy the terrain. Cyclists can explore Berlin’s only official downhill track. The lakeside restaurant Rübezahl is nearby. It offers refreshments and an adventure playground.
The Müggelsee and Fredersdorfer Mühlenfließ provide a refreshing contrast to the city. They provide space and nature. Remember the Müggelsee. Remember its history. Remember its unique connection to a moon on Saturn. As we leave this spot, carry with you the tranquil spirit of the Müggelsee.