Belvedere on Klausberg in Sanssouci Park
Built by Frederick the Great between 1770 and 1772, the Belvedere on Klausberg is the last architectural project of the Frederician era in Sanssouci. As Potsdam’s first masonry belvedere, it offers breathtaking views of the park and the city of Potsdam. Inspired by an ancient Roman palace, it underwent extensive restoration after World War II. Today, visitors can admire the restored stucco marble decorations, oak parquet flooring, and the splendid view of the Sanssouci Park.
Belvedere on Klausberg: Frederick’s Last Building and Potsdam’s First Scenic Viewpoint
Following the completion of the New Palace in 1769, Frederick the Great commissioned the construction of the Belvedere on Klausberg as part of a beautification plan for Sanssouci Park. This structure was the king’s final architectural endeavor in Sanssouci and marked the introduction of architecturally designed viewpoints in Potsdam.
The name “Belvedere” means “beautiful view,” aptly reflecting the building’s purpose. From Klausberg, visitors enjoy a picturesque panorama of Sanssouci Park, the hilly, lake-rich landscape, and the city of Potsdam. The two-story round building, crowned with two terraces and a dome, was based on an attempt to reconstruct the ancient imperial palace of Emperor Nero in Rome, designed by Georg Christian Unger. This structure is considered the first masonry belvedere in Potsdam and the last Frederician building linked to Sanssouci Park.
The Belvedere suffered severe damage in a 1945 air raid during the final days of World War II and was completely gutted by fire. As a contribution to German reunification, the Messerschmitt Foundation from Munich undertook a comprehensive restoration of the building. This effort encompassed both the exterior and interior of the Belvedere. The upper hall has been restored to its original splendor, featuring stucco marble, a reconstructed ceiling painting in the dome, and the original oak parquet flooring.
Located northwest of Sanssouci Park, the Belvedere on Klausberg is a significant part of the Berlin-Potsdam cultural landscape, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Managed by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg (SPSG), the building once again serves as a scenic viewpoint.
Visitors can stroll from the Belvedere down a magnificent avenue to Sanssouci Palace and enjoy the splendid views over the park. Constructed in the style of ancient architecture, the building is not only a historical treasure but also a remarkable vantage point that established the tradition of architectural viewpoints in Potsdam.
Architecture and Construction
Georg Christian Unger drew inspiration for the designs of the Belvedere on Klausberg from a drawing by the Italian archaeologist Francesco Bianchini, published in 1738. Bianchini had reconstructed the Imperial Palace on the Palatine Hill in Rome based on ancient ruins and coin depictions of a temple-like fountain. This model, a round structure with columns and a domed roof, served as the basis for the Belvedere.
The oval viewpoint building stands on a circular base and is surrounded by twenty Ionic and Corinthian columns. Balconies extend to the west and east, and the dome level is adorned with a balustrade featuring statues of gods. Some of the sandstone figures were replaced with replicas between 1990 and 1994. The exterior facade features laurel garlands and putto reliefs, while an iron staircase replaced the original wooden staircase in 1858.
Inside the Belvedere, the lower circular hall, originally adorned with fine marble in the 18th century, was destroyed in 1945 and remains unrestored. The upper circular hall, however, has been restored and features delicate green stucco marble, gilded ornaments, and trapezoidal parquet flooring. The ceiling showcases a reconstructed ceiling painting. The furnishings in the upper hall include gilded chairs with green leather upholstery.
Address
Maulbeerallee, 14469 Potsdam
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of visiting Sanssouci Park and Sanssouci Palace?
Sanssouci Park is free of charge, though a voluntary contribution to park maintenance is appreciated. You can enjoy guided tours and activities by choosing one of our partners' top offers. The best option for visiting Sanssouci Palace is the "Sanssouci+ Ticket" (including Sanssouci Palace), which grants one-time access to all* open palaces of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg in Potsdam.
How many days should you plan for a visit to Potsdam?
Take your time to explore Potsdam. Plan a multi-day trip to experience the city at a relaxed pace. We have carefully selected the best hotels in Potsdam for your stay. Enjoy your visit!
Which sights should you not miss when visiting Potsdam?
Where can I park near Sanssouci Park?
For a safe arrival by car in Potsdam, we have compiled key information on the best parking lots and parking options around Sanssouci Palace and Sanssouci Park. Enjoy your time in Potsdam worry-free!