Was it a bird a fish or perhaps a forgotten dream that first gave this place its name Vogelteich or Bird Pond? The Vierthaler Teich in Hanover is more than just a pretty pond. It’s a hidden jewel connecting the southern Eilenriede forest to the Maschsee lake. Imagine strolling along the Vierthalerweg a path weaving its way through this tranquil haven.
This artificial pond wasn’t always here. It came into being during the Nazi era between 1934 and 1936. The construction of the Maschsee a vast artificial lake was underway. The city used a work creation program led by Mayor Arthur Menge. This project created a 78-hectare lake. However a crucial road the Rudolf-von-Bennigsen-Ufer was spared from disruption. Therefore the area between Guntherstrasse and the Engesohde cemetery remained untouched by the Maschsee’s waters.
Instead the existing Landwehrgraben a medieval ditch that also served as part of Hanover’s defense system was redirected. It now feeds the Vierthaler Teich. This water provided lifeblood to a new park. This park connected the Eilenriede to the newly constructed Maschsee and its bathhouse completed in 1936. Three artificial islands were added to enhance the beauty. The Arthur-Menge-Brunnen a fountain named after the aforementioned mayor was constructed on a nearby bastion. It also held two historical gravestones from a nearby soldier’s cemetery. These stones were a poignant reminder of past wars.
Originally known as the Arthur-Menge-Weg the path that runs through the green space was later renamed in 1977. This was to honour the sculptor Ludwig Vierthaler whose works continue to grace the city. The Vierthaler Teich served as an unexpected stage for open-air art exhibitions. These were organised by the art group 7 in the early 2000s. This included installations and artistic expressions of sound and nature.
The Vierthaler Teich plays another vital role for the city. It acts as a rainwater retention basin. In early 2017 it underwent a massive cleaning. A large-scale dredging operation removed approximately 4000 cubic meters of accumulated sediment. This sediment consisted of sand leaves and animal waste. The cleaning was needed to restore the oxygen supply to the water for its flora and fauna. The restoration cost about 360000 euros.
Today the Vierthaler Teich stands as a testament to history art and nature. It is a testament to the vision and the effort that went into creating a beautiful oasis. This pond is a charming spot and well worth your visit. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Vierthaler Teich. The legacy of Mayor Arthur Menge and the artistic touch of Ludwig Vierthaler remain palpable. A small glimpse into the history of Hanover.