Potsdam
25th July, 2023
Potsdam is a city on the outer edge of Berlin.
The major attraction here is Sanssouci Palace, which was built in 1747 as the summer residence of Frederick the Great, the former King of Prussia.
But it is a city with many old buildings and was not as heavily damaged during WW2 as Berlin.
There were way too many places to see in Potsdam to cover in just one day … so we be back another day to see more.
Like all old German cities Potsdam had walls and gates. Potsdam had five gates, only 3 are still standing.
The Obelisk, is the only remaining part of the Neustadt Gate. It was originally made up of two obelisks, adorned with Egyptian looking hieroglyphs. It was severely damaged in WW2 and the remaining obelisk was restored and placed near to the original location in 1981.
Sanssouci Park
Sanssouci Park is the combined name for the group of palaces and gardens begun in the 18th century under Frederick the Great and extended in the 19th century under Frederick William IV.
WOW! We couldn’t actually see all of it in one day, the grounds are extensive and many parts are spread out. Also two sections were closed for renovations - the Roman Baths and Orangery Palace.
Our visit covered the New Chambers of Sanssouci and Sanssouci Palace.
New Chambers of Sanssouci
Initially built as an orangery in 1747, Frederick the Great had the New Chambers converted into a sumptuously furnished guest house.
Sanssouci Palace and gardens
Walking up the tree lined avenue which opens up to the pond and fountain and formal symmetrical gardens which leads your eye up the terrace tiers to the palace at the top. Just maintaining these gardens to this level today requires a team of gardeners, we saw several at work. Imagine what the palace looked like in its early years hosting lavish parties here.
Frederick the Great was a keen orchardist and love growing many different kinds of fruits - oranges, pineapples, cherries, grapes. Many of the trees throughout the gardens are fruit trees.
