Deep in Lankwitz, have you ever stumbled upon a green oasis? It’s called Bernkastler Platz. This park-like city square is a hidden gem. Bernkastler Platz tells a story of Wilhelminian garden art. It’s a testament to a bygone era. Today, we’ll explore its history and discover its unique features.
Bernkastler Platz emerged during a period of significant development for Lankwitz. From 1908 to 1914, Lankwitz transformed into a garden city. Rudolf Beyendorff, the mayor at the time, envisioned a modern community. It was designed as a suburb for Berlin’s affluent citizens. Bernkastler Platz, originally named Platz A-B, was part of this plan. In 1912, the square received its current name. It was dedicated to the town of Bernkastel-Kues.
The design of Bernkastler Platz served a practical purpose. It shielded the surrounding apartment buildings from the noise of the nearby railway embankment. These buildings reflected the architectural style of English garden cities. A 1914 publication described Bernkastler Platz as architecturally and horticulturally developed. It offered green spaces, flowerbeds, and well-maintained paths. A large water basin stood on the east side. A pergola framed the space. The description praised the harmonious blend of a decorative square and a recreational area. Children played by the fountain. The little ones played happily in the sand.
Tragedy struck during the Lankwitz Bombennacht on August 23, 1943. The Royal Air Force mistakenly bombed Lankwitz. The surrounding residential buildings were destroyed. The nearby station building also disappeared. The Rathaus suffered heavy damage. The Käseglocke’s dome was also destroyed.
Reconstruction of Bernkastler Platz began in 1975. Restorers relied on old postcards and photos. The Denkmalschutzbehörde faced a challenging task. The water basin had to be completely rebuilt. Original design elements were restored. These included beech hedges, the pergola, rose beds, and pavement ornaments. The reconstructed square reopened in 1988. It coincided with Lankwitz’s 750-year celebration. It became a protected garden monument.
Today, Bernkastler Platz stands as a rare example of inner-city garden art. It embodies the Wilhelminian era’s desire for representation. The 18,000 square meter green space features fountains, a pergola, and sculptures. It’s a reminder of Berlin’s rich history.
The layout of Bernkastler Platz is geometrically precise. It forms an isosceles trapezoid. The design focuses on the Parkwohnhaus, known as Käseglocke. This building once served as the entrance to the park. Rows of pyramid poplars enhance the perspective. Statuettes of children with animals mark the end of the main path. A water basin with a central fountain adds to the charm. A wooden pergola with benches provides seating. A playground is located in the eastern area.
The Käseglocke is an integral part of Bernkastler Platz. Built between 1913 and 1914, it was designed by Fritz Freymüller. Originally, it was a residential building with six apartments. The Käseglocke also served as a youth center. Today, the Käseglocke is a listed building. Reliefs of a woman’s head and children’s heads adorn the entrance. They represent the builder’s family.
Bernkastler Platz continues to offer tranquility. It also offers recreation in the heart of Berlin. The square earned the title of Denkmal des Monats in January 2017. As you leave Bernkastler Platz, remember its story. It has been a place of recreation, resilience, and beauty.