Belvedere Palace on the Pfingstberg
The Pfingstberg with the Belvedere Palace, the Pomona Temple, and the Lenné Garden is among the outstanding attractions and sights of Potsdam. With the designation ‘Potsdam’s Most Beautiful View,’ it offers not only tourists but also locals a popular destination.
Table of contents
Belvedere Pfingstberg – ‘Potsdam’s Most Beautiful View’
The Pfingstberg with its Belvedere Palace, Pomona Temple, and Lenné Garden is a enchanting place in Potsdam that captivates with idyllic tranquility in green surroundings, spectacular views, and historical splendor. The ensemble is not only a popular filming location but also a coveted venue for weddings and corporate events. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg, Pfingstberg invites visitors to events throughout the year.
The Belvedere on the Pfingstberg was built on the suggestion of Friedrich Wilhelm IV. and offers a breathtaking view. With its double-tower structure in the style of the Italian Renaissance, it majestically towers over the Pfingstberg. Friedrich Wilhelm IV. was already fascinated by the stunning view from the Pfingstberg over the city and countryside during his time as Crown Prince.
The construction of the pleasure palace began in 1847. The design of the Belvedere was inspired by Italian Renaissance villas, particularly the Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola. The two construction phases were carried out under the supervision of architects Ludwig Persius, Friedrich August Stüler, and Ludwig Ferdinand Hesse, as well as landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné.
The Belvedere was built in politically turbulent times and was completed in 1863 after the death of Friedrich Wilhelm IV. Despite financial challenges, construction was halted in 1852 in favor of the Sanssouci Orangery, but later completed under Wilhelm I. Although not all planned parts were realized, the palace impresses with its architecture and views.
The restoration of the Belvedere was successfully completed with generous support from the Hermann Reemtsma Foundation, mail-order founder Dr. Werner Otto, and other patrons. The palace has been shining in its old glory since 2003, attracting visitors with its magnificent view over Potsdam. Nowadays, Pfingstberg hosts cultural events such as guided tours, theater performances, concerts, and exhibitions, especially during the summer months. At over 100 meters above sea level, tens of thousands of visitors experience ‘Potsdam’s Most Beautiful View’ from the castle towers in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Events
Operated by the Pfingstberg Association, the Belvedere is open to the public for cultural events and private occasions.
Special opening hours over the turn of the year:
- December 16/17, 2023, from 3 pm to 7 pm Advent weekend at Belvedere Palace
- January 1, 2024, from 11 am to 3 pm New Year’s Concert
Address
Belvedere on the Pfingstberg
Am Pfingstberg
14469 Potsdam
Germany
Opening Hours
| November Opening Hours: | Saturdays and Sundays, each 10 am to 4 pm |
| December to February Opening Hours: | Closed |
| March Opening Hours: | Saturdays and Sundays, each 10 am to 4 pm |
| April to October Opening Hours: | Sundays to Fridays, 10 am to 5 pm Saturdays, 10 am to 6 pm |
Prices
Admission: €8, reduced €6, children under 7 years free