Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin in Germany

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin
Schlösser und Parks von Potsdam-Sanssouci und Berlin (Glienicke und Pfaueninsel) (Deutsche UNESCO-Kommission - german only)
Die offiziellen Seiten der Stadtverwaltung Potsdam
Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
UNESCO Commission of Germany
Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin (Cartographic Information System on European Affairs) (EUROCIS)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1990
Size of heritage: 2,064 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 13,033°
Latitude: 52,400°

Summary

With 500 ha of parks and 150 buildings constructed between 1730 and 1916, Potsdam's complex of palaces and parks forms an artistic whole, whose eclectic nature reinforces its sense of uniqueness. It extends into the district of Berlin-Zehlendorf, with the palaces and parks lining the banks of the River Havel and Lake Glienicke. Voltaire stayed at the Sans-Souci Palace, built under Frederick II between 1745 and 1747.

Location on Map

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Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin

The Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin, located in the states of Brandenburg and Berlin in Germany, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history and cultural significance of the region. This site encompasses a collection of palaces, gardens, and parks that were once the residence of Prussian kings and German emperors.

History

The history of this heritage site dates back to the 17th century when Frederick William, the Great Elector of Brandenburg, established Potsdam as his royal residence. Over the centuries, successive rulers expanded and embellished the palaces and gardens, creating a unique ensemble of architectural styles and landscape designs.

One of the most iconic structures within the site is Sanssouci Palace, built by Frederick the Great in the 18th century. This Rococo-style palace served as a summer retreat for the Prussian kings and is renowned for its terraced vineyards and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

During the 19th century, Potsdam and Berlin became the center of the German Empire, and the site witnessed further development under the guidance of Emperor William II. The New Palace, located in the Sanssouci Park, was constructed during this period and showcases a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles.

Current State

Today, the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin continue to captivate visitors with their grandeur and historical significance. The site covers an area of approximately 500 hectares and includes numerous palaces, such as the Charlottenhof Palace, the Orangery Palace, and the Cecilienhof Palace.

The gardens and parks surrounding these palaces are meticulously maintained and offer visitors a chance to explore beautifully landscaped grounds, fountains, and sculptures. The Sanssouci Park, in particular, is a highlight of the site, featuring over 70 kilometers of walking paths and a variety of architectural landmarks.

Visitors can also explore the interiors of several palaces, which have been preserved and restored to their former glory. These palaces showcase opulent rooms, intricate decorations, and a glimpse into the lives of the Prussian kings and German emperors.

The Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin are not only a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the past but also serve as a reminder of the region's historical and political significance. The site attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to admire the beauty of the palaces and gardens and to immerse themselves in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

In conclusion, the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin in Germany are a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the grandeur and historical significance of the region. With its stunning palaces, meticulously maintained gardens, and rich history, this site continues to be a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts from around the world.

Hotels and places to stay

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arcona Am Havelufer

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
Zeppelinstr. 136
14471 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Steigenberger Sanssouci

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Allee nach Sanssouci 1
14471 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Am Luisenplatz

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Luisenplatz 5
14471 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:30
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
Brandenburger Str. 1 - 3
14467 POTSDAM
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 13:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Villa Monte Vino

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
Gregor-Mendel-Str. 27
14469 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 6:00 - 22:15
Weekend: 6:00 - 22:15

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Remise Blumberg

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
Weinbergstraße 26
14469 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 10:30 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 8:00 - 18:00
Weekend: 8:00 - 15:00

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Potsdam Pension

Address
Distance: 0,7 mi
Tieckstr. 4
14469 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 13:00
Reception
Weekday: 6:00 - 22:00
Weekend: 13:00 - 18:00

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Schlossgarten Hotel Park Sanssouci

Address
Distance: 0,8 mi
Geschwister-Scholl-Str. 41A
14471 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:00 - 20:00
Weekend: 7:00 - 20:00

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Am Großen Waisenhaus

Address
Distance: 0,8 mi
Lindenstr. 28/29
14467 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:00 - 22:00
Weekend: 7:00 - 22:00

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Bed and Breakfast am Luisenplatz

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Zimmerstr. 1
14471 Potsdam
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Potsdam - Sanssouci (DE 2005 HD)

Published: July 04, 2013
Length: 22:32 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Lokitravels

Sanssouci is the former summer palace of Frederick the Great, king of Prussia, at Potsdam, near Berlin. | Sanssouci is het voormalige zomerpaleis van Frederik de Grote, koning van Pruisen,...

Camilla Duchess of Cornwall visiting the Potsdam Sanssouci Castle, video snapshot

Published: August 15, 2010
Length: 19:28 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: NickVenture1

Camilla, wife of Prince Charles made a visit to the favorite 18th century summer castle of Frederic II, King of Prussia.

On ancient routes through Germany - Part 2 / Schloss Sanssouci, Potsdam, City of Münster

Published: September 02, 2014
Length: 01:56 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Bruno Piai

Start - Zurich 22.08.2014 Time 00:00 / Finish - Zurich 28.08.2014 Time 23:00 - Planed Time: 168 hours // Used Time: pure 167 hours for 2.600 kilometers with ...

Urlaub auf Schloss SansSouci ;-) mit einer Sony HDR-CX730

Published: December 01, 2012
Length: 14:04 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: fisch adler

Urlaub auf Schloss sanssouci ;-) Auf dem Startbild ist nicht das Schloss sanssouci sondern das Potsdamer Rathaus zu sehen, gegenüber vom Potsdamer Schloss un...