How about a refreshing dip? The Hundekehlesee awaits with stories rippling beneath its surface. This lake sits in western Berlin. It is nestled at the edge of the Grunewald forest. The Hundekehlesee is part of the Grunewald chain of lakes.
The Hundekehlesee covers roughly 72,000 square meters. Its shape stretches lengthwise from north to south. This lake owes its existence to the glacial activity that formed the Grunewald lake chain. The Grunewaldsee feeds it via the Hundekehlegraben. This stream flows through the Hundekehlefenn nature reserve. About 500 meters northeast, the Dianasee follows. The Grunewald glacial valley is interrupted by roads. It reappears as a small park south of Fontanestraße.
A public path runs along the Hundekehlesee’s western edge. It is a popular dog-walking route. Other parts of the Hundekehlesee remain inaccessible to the public.
Once upon a time, in 1774, a lone fisherman’s house stood near Schmargendorf. It was called Hundekehl. By 1801, one household lived there. In 1858, six people called it home. The area had one residential and two farm buildings by 1861.
Paths once circled the Hundekehlesee. However, the Prussian forestry administration sold land plots to wealthy developers in the late 19th century. Some parts of the Hundekehlesee remained open. During the winter of 1902/1903, the ice thickened to over 30 cm. An ice-skating rink opened on the Hundekehlesee. Berliners loved it.
In 1920, the Grunewald community resisted incorporation into Greater Berlin. Local business owners, bankers, professors, and artists wanted to keep their tax advantages.
The area around the Hundekehlesee became an upscale neighborhood. It features grand villas and protected gardens. These buildings reflect architectural styles from the turn of the 20th century.
Writer Robert Gernhardt penned verses about the Hundekehlesee. He reflected on societal inequalities. He wrote, “O that it should remain concealed from the poor.”
For a time, several embassies were located near the Hundekehlesee. These included the Irish and Czech Republic embassies.
The Federal Police’s mounted squadron neighbors the Hundekehlesee. The LTTC Rot-Weiß Berlin tennis club and the Steffi-Graf-Stadion are also nearby.
The Villa Harteneck stands as an example of luxury. Carl Harteneck, a chemical manufacturer, commissioned it. During the Nazi era, Admiral Wilhelm Canaris lived there. He was later executed for his involvement in the plot against Hitler.
The Villa Konschewski is another notable building. Moritz Konschewski, a paper factory director, commissioned it in 1923. Architect Oskar Kaufmann designed it. The villa combines Art Deco and Neo-Rococo elements.
The name “Hundekehle” has two possible origins. One theory suggests it derives from “Hundequele”. This was a gathering place for hunting dogs. Another theory connects it to a “Rotsee” mentioned in 1567.
The Hundekehlesee is a designated fishing spot. Anglers can catch various fish. These include eels, perches, and carps.
So, as you stand by the Hundekehlesee, remember its stories. From ice skating to luxurious villas, this lake has seen it all. It is a testament to Berlin’s rich history.