Hidden within Berlin’s Spandau district lies Koeltzepark, a seemingly ordinary park with an extraordinary past. Koeltzepark isn’t just a place for leisurely strolls; it’s a time capsule whispering stories of bygone eras. Originally consecrated as a cemetery in 1752, known as the Nikolai-Friedhof or Mauerfriedhof, Koeltzepark served as the final resting place for Spandau’s citizens. Imagine the scene, somber processions moving through rows of Maulbeerbäume, planted by order of Frederick the Great for silk production. Yes, Koeltzepark played a role in Prussia’s 18th-century silk trade, a far cry from the children’s laughter echoing across its playgrounds today. Fast forward to the 20th century, a bustling city demanding space. The cemetery, now too close to the expanding residential areas, was deemed unsuitable. In 1933, under the direction of Richard Woy, the cemetery underwent a transformation, emerging as the Koeltzepark we know today. Its name honors Friedrich Koeltze, Spandau’s first mayor who served for an impressive thirty years. He influenced Spandau’s development, even initiating the dismantling of the city’s fortifications. Today, Koeltzepark is a vibrant hub, attracting a diverse community. Children race across the three playgrounds, Turkish and Kurdish families gather for picnics, and older residents find tranquility under the shade of 20 different tree species. Among these trees stands a remarkable 180-year-old Spitzahorn, a designated natural monument, silently witnessing the park’s evolution. Though a modern park, echoes of the past remain. The uneven terrain hints at the landscape’s former life as a meandering river, and the distribution of the mature trees reflects the layout of the old burial grounds. A low brick wall along Kirchhofstraße stands as a quiet reminder of the cemetery that once was. Koeltzepark invites you to explore its unique blend of history and modern life. From silkworms to slacklines, this park has truly seen it all.
Genossenschaft PA58
From 1981 the Genossenschaft PA58 stands tall. It’s a self-managed house project. This is its story. This impressive building in