From the depths of a former lignite mine emerges a story of transformation. Berzdorfer See, a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s resilience, stretches before us. This stunning lake, nestled on the southern edge of Görlitz, was once the site of the Berzdorf open-cast mine. For over 150 years, the land yielded millions of tons of lignite, fueling the nearby Hagenwerder power plant. The very ground we stand on was once a hive of activity. Imagine the rumble of bucket-wheel excavators, extracting up to 50,000 tons of coal each day.
Berzdorfer See’s story begins in the mid-1800s with small-scale underground mining. By 1919, the operation transitioned to open-pit mining. This continued until 1927 when the pit was temporarily flooded. After World War II, the mine was revived, playing a crucial role in East Germany’s energy production. The relentless demand for lignite even led to the relocation of entire villages, like Berzdorf in the 1960s and Deutsch-Ossig in 1988. They were literally swallowed by the expanding mine.
However, in 1997, the mining ceased. A decision driven not by resource depletion, but by economic realities. The cost of implementing desulfurization technology at the power plant proved too high. What remained was a vast scar on the landscape and a question: what to do with this enormous void? The answer? Turn it into something beautiful. In 2002, the arduous process of flooding the former mine began, using water from the Pließnitz River. This was further supplemented in 2004 by a one-kilometer-long pipeline diverting water from the Lusatian Neisse River.
Berzdorfer See’s creation received an unexpected boost in 2010. A nearby dam on the Smědá River broke during heavy rains. A torrent of water surged into the half-filled lake. Almost overnight, Berzdorfer See reached its intended capacity. This serendipitous event accelerated the lake’s formation. Officially declared full in 2013, Berzdorfer See now boasts a maximum depth of 72 meters and covers an area of 960 hectares. It has become one of Saxony’s largest lakes, a popular destination for sailing, swimming, and simply enjoying the breathtaking views.
Today, Berzdorfer See is a vibrant hub for recreation. An observation tower offers panoramic vistas. A pony farm, a miniature golf course, and even a climbing tower beckon visitors. Walk along the 18-kilometer lakeside path and discover information boards detailing the area’s rich history. As you stand here, at the edge of this magnificent lake, consider the remarkable transformation. From an industrial wasteland to a haven of natural beauty, Berzdorfer See’s story is a powerful reminder of nature’s ability to heal and adapt. It’s also a testament to the human capacity to envision and create something beautiful from the remnants of the past.