Großer Malchsee

Can you imagine a place where an ancient oak tree stands as a silent witness to centuries of history? Here at Großer Malchsee, time seems to whisper through the rustling leaves of the Dicke Marie, Berlin’s oldest tree. Großer Malchsee is more than just a northern bay of the Tegeler See. It is a place where history, nature, and recreation intertwine. The promenade along the eastern and northern shores invites you to stroll along the water’s edge. It’s a continuation of the Greenwichpromenade of the main lake. This path, known as “An der Malche,” also forms part of the Humboldt-Spur, one of Berlin’s 20 Green Main Paths. Großer Malchsee boasts a rich recreational landscape. The Freizeitpark an der Malche offers boat rentals, playgrounds, sports fields, and even a water playground. For those seeking a more contemplative experience, the sculpture “Der archaische Erzengel von Heiligensee” stands on the Seglerkopf peninsula. This unique artwork honors the Dada artist Hannah Höch. It’s made of bronze, metal, and wood and rests on a granite pedestal. Now, let’s return to the Dicke Marie, the grand old oak that has witnessed it all. The Humboldt brothers, Alexander and Wilhelm, gave the tree its name. Its compact form and low branches suggest it once stood on the shores of a smaller inlet of Großer Malchsee. This inlet is now separated from the main bay by a path and subject to fluctuating water levels. Großer Malchsee is a living tapestry woven with threads of history. The surrounding Schlosspark Tegel houses the Humboldt family burial ground, adding another layer of historical significance. So, as you stand here at Großer Malchsee, take a moment to appreciate the tranquil beauty and the echoes of the past that resonate in this special place.