Admittedly, when we think of Belvedere, the world-famous palace in Vienna usually comes to mind. But there is also a palace complex with this name in Potsdam that is well worth seeing. The term “Belvedere” comes from Italian and simply means “beautiful view.” Since this name was very popular for stately buildings with magnificent views, there are several famous palaces with this name. And one of the most beautiful palaces around Berlin is the Belvedere in Potsdam.
Royal views on the Pfingstberg
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The Belvedere on the Pfingstberg is one of Potsdam’s most striking buildings and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered the epitome of “Prussian Arcadia” and offers the most spectacular view of the city and the surrounding area. At 76 meters above sea level, the Pfingstberg is Potsdam’s highest elevation. Not much, but still! From the two towers, you can see across the Havel lakes, the city center , and even the Berlin TV tower.
The palace itself is almost 200 years old. Construction began in 1847, but was interrupted in 1852 due to political unrest and a lack of funds. It was not completed until 1863 under Wilhelm I in a significantly reduced, smaller version. The Prussian king Frederick William IV, also known as the “romantic on the throne,” designed the palace based on Italian Renaissance villas. He also had private retreats built, which today offer an intimate insight into his love life.
A palace with a romanticism that has almost disappeared
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The Belvedere in Potsdam almost did not exist. During the division of Germany, the building fell into disrepair because it was located in the border area. The view towards West Berlin was undesirable. It was only after the fall of the Berlin Wall that the Belvedere awoke from its slumber. From 1987 onwards, a private citizens’ initiative campaigned for its rescue: today, it is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site run by a private association.
The palace has a particularly romantic atmosphere. With its arcades, colonnades, galleries, the water basin in the courtyard, and the two observation towers, it almost has an Italian feel to it. Inside, you will find the Moorish Cabinet: a magnificent interior decorated with red, blue, and gold glazed tiles and ornaments. The surrounding park was designed by landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné and is ideal for walks in both winter and summer. You can visit the Belvedere in Potsdam for eight euros. Special guided tours are available for groups.