Curious about where Spandau’s oldest park resides? Welcome to the Wröhmännerpark. This green space has been a haven for Spandau residents since the early 20th century. It offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.
The Wröhmännerpark wasn’t always called that. Until 1964, it was known as Wröhmännerplatz. The park’s story began in 1913 and 1914. It was created as part of social reforms. The goal was to provide a recreational area for the Neustadt district. This area had few green spaces and many working-class families.
Before the park, this site had a different purpose. In the mid-19th century, it was a municipal harbor and storage area. In 1875, it was filled with sand. The sand came from the leveled Schülerberge. This area was once a meadow belonging to the Wröhmänner.
Who were the Wröhmänner? They were medieval farmers who formed a Wröhe. A Wröhe was a voluntary court. It allowed members to settle field and land disputes independently. The area was considered their former meeting place. Hence, the name Wröhmännerpark.
The park’s original design remains a mystery. We do not know which landscape architect created it. It was generously designed in the Art Nouveau style. It featured elaborate structures and lush greenery. The park had wooden benches and candelabras. A plateau framed by sandstone balustrades dominated. Below was a tongue-shaped water basin. Goldfish swam there amidst rich vegetation. The park showcased ornamental shrubs, roses, hedges, and tree groupings. Large trees were transplanted here. This gave the park a mature feel from the start. Some of these trees still stand today.
The former harbor basin once had a boat rental service. Visitors could take boat trips on the Oberhavel River. Park keepers maintained order until around 1944. They prevented damage to the plants.
The Wröhmännerpark suffered little damage during World War II. However, the river bathing area to the north was partially destroyed in air raids in 1945. Despite rumors, the park was not used to dump rubble. A vacant area on Friedrichstrasse served that purpose. Neglect during the post-war years led to the park’s deterioration.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the park was redesigned. This happened as part of an emergency program. The design followed the tastes of the time. The park was expanded to include the former bathing area. The original splendor was initially lost. The connection to the Havel was filled in. The basin became a water lily pond.
In 1991 began a renovation. Landscape architect Lothar Knorr developed a redesign. The old trees were preserved where possible. The historical park layout was restored. The edging of the former water basin was reconstructed. Instead of a fountain, a lawn was created. A small park extension was added on Neuendorfer Strasse. A pergola with ornamental plants and benches was installed. A lawn for sunbathing was created in the northern area. White wooden deck chairs are available in the summer.
The restoration of the harbor basin aimed to enhance the park’s recreational value. The dilapidated remains of the former harbor were renovated in 1996 and 1997. The accumulated sludge was removed. Reconnecting to the Havel was not possible. A boat rental service was not revived. This was to avoid obstructing shipping traffic. The harbor basin is connected to the Havel via a pipeline.
Today, the Wröhmännerpark covers about three hectares. It extends south along the Havel. It reaches the Mühlengraben. This was the former fortress moat of Spandau’s old town.
In 2004, a citizens’ initiative formed. Its goal is to preserve the park. Regular volunteer work is carried out on weekends. There is constructive cooperation with local authorities and the police. In May 2008, the initiative received the “Spandauer des Monats” award.
The bus stop Wröhmännerpark is still called “Hafenplatz” by Spandau residents. This refers to the square named after the former harbor. It was integrated into Neuendorfer Strasse in 1961.
Look around you and appreciate this green oasis. The Wröhmännerpark stands as a testament to Spandau’s history. It offers a peaceful retreat for all.