Stahnsdorf between cemetery culture and woodland landscapes

The Southwest Cemetery in Stahnsdorf showcases two centuries of burial culture and a diverse range of cemetery architecture. West of Stahnsdorf lies the Parforceheide, a large, continuous woodland area with its own distinctive landscape. This brings culture and extensive walks together as different interests to consider when planning your trip. Cultural events are held on the cemetery grounds and in the chapel; their programme may change.

Grave art and chapel architecture

Elaborately decorated gravestones and oversized grave walls shape the grounds. There are also mausoleums in Neoclassical, Expressionist, Baroque and Gothic styles. Visitors interested in architectural history can find a range of different designs in one place. Works by architects and sculptors such as Franz Seeck, Alfred Grenander, Max Taut, Hugo Lederer, Hermann Hosaeus and Emil Cauer contribute to the site’s art-historical significance.

The cemetery opened in 1909, together with a chapel inspired by Norwegian stave churches. Its actual construction differs from this model: the cemetery chapel was built horizontally using log construction rather than vertically using stave construction. The original interior ensemble, with its ornamental windows, painted decoration and Sauer organ, has been preserved.

Visiting hours vary by season: from 1 March to 30 September, the Southwest Cemetery is open from 07:00 to 20:00; from 1 October to 28 February, it is open from 07:00 to 18:00. Check visiting hours in advance. Cultural events are also held on the cemetery grounds and in the chapel; dates may change.

Guided visits bring together garden design and two centuries of burial culture with the natural surroundings. The focus may vary depending on the programme. Guided tours last around two and a half hours and include a visit to the chapel. As the availability of tours may vary, check what is on offer before your visit.

Woodland landscapes and getting around

The Parforceheide west of Stahnsdorf is a large, continuous woodland area with forests, grassland, dry grassland, fields, hedges and pollarded willows. The varied landscape provides a distinctive setting for extensive walks.

Buses connect Stahnsdorf with Potsdam and Teltow S-Bahn station; road access is via the A115. Check current bus services and road conditions before travelling. Historically, a dedicated railway line connected Stahnsdorf with Berlin-Wannsee and Berlin-Halensee.

Cultural highlights in Potsdam-Mittelmark

The wider destination of Potsdam-Mittelmark offers other cultural themes that provide different historical perspectives. Eisenhardt Castle, above Bad Belzig, is a cultural landmark where visitors can experience the Middle Ages first-hand. Ziesar Castle was an important episcopal residence in the Middle Ages and impresses with its well-preserved architecture. Wiesenburg Palace is known for its Renaissance architecture and landscaped park. Thus, alongside Stahnsdorf’s cemetery and chapel, Potsdam-Mittelmark also offers castles, architectural history and parkland.

Discover more destinations: Radewege, Marquardt, Petzow, Kloster Lehnin, Wollin, Roskow, Babelsberg, Rabenstein/Fläming.

View the wider travel overview: Potsdam-Mittelmark.