Five thousand square meters of tranquility that’s the Röthepfuhl. This unassuming pond in Teltow Brandenburg holds centuries of history. Imagine flax farmers from Ruhlsdorf in the 14th century. They soaked their flax in the Röthepfuhl. The water turned a reddish-brown hue. This gave the pond its name Röthepfuhl meaning reddish pond. The process of soaking and then drying the flax was called ‘rösten’ or ‘röten’.
The Röthepfuhl’s story isn’t just about flax. In the 1950s the pond nearly dried up. Deep wells supplying nearby nurseries drained the water. But the Röthepfuhl fought back. In the 1980s the banks were reshaped. Earth from a new housing development helped. In 1986 the pond’s bottom was dredged. Teltow’s 700th anniversary brought funding. More dredging happened. Overgrown vegetation was cleared. A ditch protected the central island a haven for birds. A system was added to maintain water levels. Now thousands of cubic meters of water are pumped in yearly. Plans are underway to turn the Röthepfuhl into a flowing body of water. Clean water from a nearby treatment plant might be used.
The Röthepfuhl is a vibrant ecosystem. A 2002 survey found common toads grey herons nightingales mallards and reed warblers. Plants like common spike-rush bog rush common reed and water lilies thrive. You’ll also find the poisonous common ragweed and the edible wild pansy.
The Röthepfuhl is more than just a pond. It’s a testament to resilience. It’s a place where history nature and community intertwine. It’s a charming spot perfect for a relaxing stroll. It’s a quiet corner of Teltow that whispers stories of the past while promising a bright future.