Blümelteich

Gazing across the tranquil surface of Blümelteich, can you imagine a time before this serene oasis existed? Here in the heart of Volkspark Mariendorf, Blümelteich has been a beloved spot for generations. Originally, this area was slated for roads and buildings. Thankfully, plans shifted in the early 20th century. The community envisioned a park, a green escape from the bustling city. Though World War I delayed these dreams, by the 1920s, the area became a recreational haven. Blümelteich saw rowboats glide across its waters, and the park began to take shape. A nearby construction project provided the perfect material to create a 60-meter-high sledding hill, later augmented with post-World War II rubble. Despite financial constraints and disagreements, Volkspark Mariendorf, including Blümelteich, officially opened in 1931. In 1935, the Volksparkstadion, the seventh-largest stadium in Berlin, was built next to the park. The same year, the old sundial, a silent observer of the park’s evolution, was also placed here. A new sundial was installed in 1999, a testament to the park’s continued renewal. Since 1938, Blümelteich has become a haven for model boat enthusiasts, its calm waters reflecting the miniature vessels. Sailboats graced the water first, followed by the louder gasoline-powered models. Considerate of nearby residents, the enthusiasts switched to quieter electric motors in the 1970s. To this day, model boats, both sail and electric, share the tranquil waters with ducks and swans. The park saw renovations in the 1950s, including upgrades to the Volksparkstadion. More recently, in 2019-2020, Blümelteich underwent a significant restoration. The pond was desludged, restoring clarity to its waters and preserving this cherished spot within Volkspark Mariendorf for future generations. The revitalized Blümelteich stands as a testament to the community’s vision, a place of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Berlin.