Isn’t it refreshing to escape the city’s confines and find yourself embraced by nature’s tranquility? Right here before us lies the Lauerholz, Lübeck’s largest urban forest. This expansive woodland spans 960 hectares. That makes it a vital green lung for our city.
The Lauerholz’s story stretches back centuries. Its name comes from Gut Alt-Lauerhof. This estate was in the forest’s north. It was mentioned in Detmar’s medieval chronicle. In 1862, forester Johann Georg Witthauer suggested reforesting it. It then became part of the Israelsdorf forests. By the 19th century, “Lauerholz” became the term for the entire woodland. It stretched from Wesloe to Schellbruch and the Trave.
In 1760, Lübeck’s citizens recognized this area as a place for recreation. They began planting trees to create a forest for everyone to enjoy. The Lustholz near Israelsdorf shows this idea. Its circular paths were designed for walkers, not just forestry. The Lauerholz even had a picnic area for the city’s elite.
But the Lauerholz has also served as a vital resource. During the two World Wars, it faced clear-cutting. This was to provide fuel for the population amid coal shortages in 1919 and after 1945.
In 1950, the Lauerholz gained official recognition. It was declared a landscape protection area. This designation covered 822 hectares at the time.
Today, the Lauerholz is managed with care. Since 1995, the city has followed a concept of natural forest use. This ensures sustainable and ecological forestry practices. Since 1997, the Lauerholz has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. This means no more clear-cutting or monocultures. Instead, individual trees are managed.
As you wander through the Lauerholz, notice the variety of trees. You will see oak, beech, ash and maple. In the eastern part near Brandenbaum, pines dominate. This is due to the poor soil.
The Medebek River flows through the western part of the Lauerholz. To the east, the Lübeck Landgraben marks the boundary. It borders the Schönberg state forest. This area follows the old Lübeck city fortifications.
Interestingly, efforts were made to combat mosquitoes here. In 1912, scientists began mapping and eliminating standing water. Despite this, you can still find numerous bodies of water. There are also about 74 hectares of fen areas. The Depenmoor is the best-known moor. Painter and art forger Lothar Malskat once lived and worked here.
As we conclude our exploration of the Lauerholz, consider its dual role. It is both a place of recreation and a vital part of Lübeck’s history. Its story reflects the city’s changing relationship with nature. The Lauerholz stands as a testament to the enduring importance of green spaces in our lives.