Wagendorf Lohmühle

Tucked away in Alt-Treptow, the Wagendorf Lohmüchle whispers tales of resilience and community. The Wagendorf Lohmüchle began its life in 1991. A small group of people chose a unique home: converted trucks and trailers. Their first settlement was along the former Berlin Wall, a space known as the “death strip.” As the city transformed this area into the Schlesischer Busch park, the residents of Wagendorf Lohmüchle relocated. They moved to a nearby site on Lohmühlenstrasse, reclaiming a barren piece of land. The Wagendorf Lohmüchle residents transformed this neglected space. They planted greenery, built paths, and brought life back to the land. They constructed toilets, showing their commitment to creating a functional community. They built a stage and acquired sound equipment, turning Wagendorf Lohmüchle into a vibrant cultural hub. Over the years, the Wagendorf Lohmüchle evolved. It became a recognized cultural project, constantly renewing itself. The need for plants and building materials never ceased. The residents embraced ecological principles, rejecting brown coal heating and implementing their own wastewater treatment systems. They prioritized autonomy and environmental sustainability. They created small ecosystems within their gardens, providing habitats for rare plants and animals. Wagendorf Lohmüchle’s first residents may have moved on, but their legacy lives on. The current community continues their dream, a testament to the power of collective living. Today, the Wagendorf Lohmüchle houses around 17 adults, a child, and a collection of dogs and cats. A five-year agreement with the Treptow-Köpenick district recognizes the “Kulturbanausen e.V.” association as the site’s administrator. This agreement, however, offers limited protection from the looming threat of real estate speculation. Despite the uncertainties, the Wagendorf Lohmüchle community remains hopeful. They aspire to inspire other urban projects with their way of life. They extend a welcoming hand to visitors, inviting them to experience their unique community firsthand. The Wagendorf Lohmüchle stands as a symbol of alternative living. It showcases the power of community and the possibility of transforming forgotten spaces into vibrant hubs of life and culture.