Consider the stories held within these grounds. Friedhof Wilmersdorf is more than a final resting place. It is a testament to history and art.
This cemetery in Berlin’s Wilmersdorf locality was established in 1885 and 1886. Over time, it has expanded to cover 10.12 hectares. Sections A, B and D are listed as historical gardens. They showcase Berlin’s garden design.
One of Friedhof Wilmersdorf’s notable features is its own crematorium. Construction began in 1919. It finished in 1923. The crematorium operated until 1990. Today, the building is a protected landmark. Its mourning hall is still used.
Wander through Friedhof Wilmersdorf. You will see sculptures and wall tombs. They represent a unique aspect of Berlin’s sepulchral culture. You might recognize the names of sculptors, musicians and actors. Many famous people chose this as their final place.
The German sculptor Hans Arnoldt rests here. Also, Bruno Balz is buried here. He wrote the lyrics for the song “Wir wollen niemals auseinandergehen”. Robert Biberti a singer from the Comedian Harmonists is also interred here. Herbert Weissbach an actor known from the TV show Großstadtrevier is also buried at Friedhof Wilmersdorf.
Originally, the cemetery was just one hectare. Max Contag and Christian Havestadt designed its chapel and halls. A rectangular path system branched out from the chapel. The main paths were lined with trees like Linden and Platanen.
Richard Thieme expanded Friedhof Wilmersdorf. He added to it in 1891 and again between 1906 and 1910. The expansion kept the original design intact.
After 1911, cremation became legal in Prussia. In 1915, construction began on the crematorium. Otto Herrnring designed a classicist building. It featured a cupola and a hall for ceremonies. Eberhard Encke created sculptures for the crematorium.
In 1935, only urn burials were allowed here. The cemetery was renamed Urnenhain Wilmersdorf. This rule changed after 1945. The crematorium reopened in 1966 after renovations.
The cemetery has different types of burial plots. These include urn graves wall spaces and earth graves. The chapel has 140 seats. It also has a Schuke organ.
The Friedhof Wilmersdorf is open at different times. From March to April it is open from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. May to August it is open from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM. September to October it is open from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. November to February it is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Today Friedhof Wilmersdorf provides a tranquil space. It offers insight into Berlin’s history. The grounds hold stories of people who shaped the city’s culture. Take a moment to reflect on their lives. Remember their contributions to art, music and society.