In "Görli," the motto isclear: "Accessible to All"
Unveiling the History and Evolution of Görlitzer Park in Berlin
Nestled in the heart of Kreuzberg, Görlitzer Park stands as a testament to the transformation and complexities of Berlin's urban landscape. Originally a terminal station, the park has evolved into a vibrant green space, symbolising the district's journey from division and marginalization to a hub of creativity and cultural diversity.
The park's history is deeply intertwined with the societal struggles and discourses that have shaped Kreuzberg over the years. Opened as a train station in 1866, it was used for transport to various cities like Lübben, Cottbus, Görlitz, and Vienna until passenger traffic was discontinued in the 60s [1][4]. Since then, it has served as a symbol of urban change, embodying the "thin line between alternative life and anarchy" due to its role as a community space that has also hosted social challenges [4].
The "Harnrohre," a tunnel connecting Wiener Straße with the Wrangel-Kiez, was built to avoid walking around the park [3]. This tunnel, like the park itself, has been a part of the park's history, adding to its unique character.
Görlitzer Park has been central to Kreuzberg for decades and its significance extends beyond district and city borders [2]. Today, it is a popular spot for festivals, outdoor activities, and cultural interaction, fostering a multicultural atmosphere that reflects Berlin's dynamic social fabric [2].
However, the park has not always been a well-maintained public space. It has, at times, served as a lawless adventure playground for both children and adults, with the "Harnrohre" being used as a makeshift toilet by those who stayed in the park day and night [2]. Kessi Schmidt, a local resident, describes the park as a do-it-yourself garden and workshop, a leisure spot, and sometimes a contaminated danger zone [3].
Recently, the Berlin Senate has proposed measures such as a fence and closing times to address the issues faced in the park, a decision that has caused annoyance among many residents [5]. This move highlights the ongoing urban struggle between alternative lifestyles and social order/authority, a struggle that has been visible in Görlitzer Park for years [4].
In summary, Görlitzer Park stands as a historically significant place in Kreuzberg, reflecting:
- The district’s transformation from division and marginalization to creativity and multicultural community [1].
- The ongoing urban struggle between alternative lifestyles and social order/authority [4].
- The evolution of the park and neighborhood amid broader gentrification and societal change over decades [1][4].
- A space for both cultural celebration and contested social discourse within Berlin’s urban development [2].
This layered history makes Görlitzer Park a vital case study in understanding Kreuzberg’s past and present societal discourses and urban dynamics.
References: 1. http://www.berlin-herald.com/berlin-history/the-history-of-kreuzberg/ 2. https://www.spiegel.de/reise/deutschland/der-wilde-westen-von-kreuzberg-a-1135764.html 3. https://www.zeit.de/2017/40/gorlitzer-park-berlin-schmutz-kultur-raum-veranderung 4. https://www.dw.com/en/berlin-s-gorlitzer-park-a-symbol-of-urban-transformation/a-45019551 5. https://www.dw.com/en/berlin-senate-wants-to-close-gorlitzer-park-at-night/a-57623045
Despite its history as a functional train station, Görlitzer Park in Berlin has evolved into a vibrant home-and-garden destination, embodying the diverse lifestyle of Kreuzberg. Over the decades, this park has been a space for cultural celebration, yet also a contested area for social discourse, reflecting the ongoing urban struggle between alternative lifestyles and social order.
