Anyone who thinks Germany has nothing to offer but beautiful lakes and untouched forests is sorely mistaken. Nature in this country is full of surprising places that many of you might not expect. The best part: some of the most extraordinary landscapes and structures are not far from the capital and are perfect for a spring outing. Whether it’s a visit to Germany’s only desert with its dunes and vast heathlands, a wildlife park teeming with species that evokes the famous Yellowstone, or even a touch of Egypt in Brandenburg. In Cottbus, a pyramid rises up, constructed entirely of earth and grass. But that’s not all: Brandenburg is also home to Germany’s largest fieldstone pyramid. The stone pyramid of Garzau is an extraordinary historical structure located in the village of Garzau-Garzin in the Märkisch-Oderland district, east of Berlin, on the edge of Märkische Schweiz.
The pyramid stands in the former Garzau Castle Park, which was laid out as a landscape garden in the 18th century and was part of a prestigious estate. The structure was erected in 1784. It was commissioned by the Prussian officer, cartographer, and landowner Count Friedrich Wilhelm Carl von Schmettau, who had acquired the Garzau estate as early as 1779. Schmettau had a sprawling landscape park designed on the grounds based on the English model.
Architecturally, the pyramid is particularly remarkable. It is about 13.8 meters high and consists of uncut fieldstones, a building material typical of the region. The structure has a square shape on the outside, while the interior features an octagonal main room. This room is covered by a dome whose height and diameter are exactly the same at approximately 5.9 meters each. These harmonious proportions are reminiscent of ancient structures such as the Pantheon in Rome.
The entrance to the pyramid is marked by a sandstone portal in the style of a small Greek temple . Inside are several rooms and chambers, including an underground vault. Originally, ramps and stairs on the outside led to the top of the structure, where a small pavilion once stood. Light streams into the interior through an opening in the dome—a so-called opaion—creating a special, almost mystical atmosphere.
The pyramid’s design reflects the cultural trends of the late 18th century. During this period, Europe was deeply fascinated by antiquity and, in particular, by Ancient Egypt, whose monumental architecture was considered mysterious and captivating. Over the course of the 19th century, however, the palace park fell into increasing disrepair, and the pyramid itself was long forgotten. Parts of the complex were overgrown or damaged. It was not until 1999 that the structure was uncovered again and subjected to intensive research. In the years that followed, a support association was founded to advocate for the restoration of the pyramid and the park . Between 2000 and 2010, the structure was finally gradually renovated and secured.
Today, the stone pyramid of Garzau is a protected historical monument and a popular destination in Brandenburg. Visitors can explore the historic park and view the unusual architecture up close. Cultural events such as concerts or guided toursare also held there from time to time.