Potsdam Parks Will Resume Operations On Friday - Potsdam's garden will resume operations starting Friday
In the heart of Brandenburg, Germany, several historic parks have been impacted by unfavourable weather conditions and the resulting drought. The New Garden in Potsdam, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was temporarily closed on July 2 and 3 due to an increased risk, likely related to drought conditions or other safety concerns.
The Park Sanssouci, another historic park within the New Garden, remains open, but visitors are advised to stay on the paths and avoid the lawns due to the park's dryness and strong sunlight exposure. Despite these challenges, visits to the Sanssouci Palace are available by timed tickets, although there have been no reported closures.
The storm has caused additional devastation in the historic parks managed by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation (SPSG), including the Park Sanssouci. To ensure the continued maintenance of these parks, the state of Brandenburg has agreed to cover the missing 800,000 euros from 2026, as announced by Minister of Culture Manja Schüle (SPD). This decision will prevent the need for visitors to pay an entrance fee to the Park Sanssouci, which remains free for all to enjoy.
The New Garden's groundwater level is very low, and irrigation only helps to a limited extent. The shedding of large branches by trees in the park is a protective mechanism in the current conditions. The Park Sacrow remains closed due to ongoing cleanup work and damage from the storm.
The Potsdam city council has ended its financial contribution to the maintenance of the historic parks, terminating an agreement that was to run until 2028. The Sanssouci Palace and its surrounding park are part of this network of historic sites under the care of the SPSG.
As of Friday, the New Garden has reopened, and visitors are encouraged to follow the guidelines for their safety and the preservation of the park's beauty. The ongoing challenges faced by these historic parks serve as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the impact of weather conditions on these treasured sites.
Community members are encouraged to adhere to the updated park policies within the New Garden and the surrounding parks, considering the ongoing challenges due to unfavourable weather and drought conditions. Maintaining a lifestyle that respects the environment, particularly in home-and-garden settings like the New Garden, is crucial for the preservation of these historic sites and their continued enjoyment by future generations.
