Belvedere on the Pfingstberg

Admire the superbly symmetrical design of this Renaissance-style palace commissioned by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV as a tribute to the beauty of New Garden.

Belvedere on the Pfingstberg was built as a monument to Potsdam’s remarkable landscape, and if you visit the observation platform within the palace you’ll soon see why. The magnificent panorama encompasses the Prussian Kingdom’s regal parks and gardens, as well as the serene waters of the Jungfernsee. Note the Roman influence on the palace’s imperial architecture, which is just as appealing as the view.

As you wind your way through the trees that cover Pfingstberg Hill, you’ll see the symmetrical structure of the Belvedere coming into view. King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia commissioned the exquisite palace after his visit to Rome in 1829. Construction began in 1847 and was completed in 1863. Admire the structure’s twin towers and stunning colonnades. Perched solemnly on the hilltop, the structure affords one of Potsdam’s most enchanting views.

Make your way into the imposing structure and explore its palatial interiors, which feature historical displays. Climb to the top of one of the towers and take in the panorama that so inspired the Prussian king. You’ll see the Temple of Pomona, the leafy woodlands of Waldpark and the immense structure of Sanssouci. Look east and south to see some of Brandenburg’s glimmering lakes. Imagine how the landscape would have looked during the Prussian reign between 1701 and 1918, when Potsdam was a playground for royalty. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, the palace has been meticulously restored and today the complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snap photographs of the spectacular view as a souvenir to bring back home.

Save some time to stroll around the Belvedere’s beautifully landscaped gardens. Check the Belvedere’s program of events and find out what’s happening during your visit. You might see live music concerts in the palace gardens.

Belvedere on the Pfingstberg is located in northern Potsdam. Make the 20-minute bus ride from Potsdam’s main railway station to the New Garden and reach the palace on foot. There is an admission fee to access the building’s interior and viewing platform. The Belvedere on the Pfingstberg is open daily until the late afternoon.