Tempelhofer Feld
Berlin
Tempelhofer Feld, located in Berlin, Germany, is a unique urban park that occupies the site of the former Tempelhof Airport. Historically, it served as farmland until the 18th century before becoming a significant military parade ground for the Prussian army from 1722 onward. The field is notable for its connections to German military history, early aviation milestones-including the first flight of the world's first rigid airship in 1897-and German sports history, particularly football. The airport itself was developed between 1922 and 1941 and played a crucial role during the Berlin Airlift of 1948-1949. After its closure in 2008, the site was controversially opened to the public in 2010 as a large recreational park spanning 355 hectares, making it the largest inner-city open space worldwide. The park features former airport buildings, extensive open runways, and multiple entrances, offering visitors a vast area for leisure, sports, and cultural events. Despite several attempts to develop or privatize the area, strong citizen activism has preserved its public accessibility and open character.
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Tip: The best time to visit Tempelhofer Feld is during spring and summer when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors can enter the park from sunrise to sunset through multiple entrances. It is advisable to check the official website for any special events or temporary closures. While no concrete ticket prices apply as the park is free, some events may require pre-booking. The large open space is perfect for biking, picnics, kite flying, and sports, so bringing your own equipment is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The world's first rigid airship made its maiden flight at Tempelhofer Feld in 1897.
- •During the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), supply planes landed at Tempelhof Airport sometimes as frequently as every 90 seconds.
- •Tempelhofer Feld is the largest inner-city open space in the world, covering 355 hectares.
- •The park attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors on its opening weekend, with about 235,000 people attending in 2010.
- •The field was used as a military parade ground starting in 1722 and was known as the 'Great Field' (Großes Feld).
History
Originally farmland used by Schöneberg farmers until the 18th century, Tempelhofer Feld became a military parade and drill ground from 1722 under Frederick William I.
The field hosted notable events such as a parade attended by Hawaiian King Kalākaua in 1881.
In 1897, the world's first rigid airship made its maiden flight here.
The area was transformed into Tempelhof Airport starting in 1922, with the iconic airport building constructed between 1936 and 1941.
During World War II, the airport was used for military production involving forced labor.
Post-war, it was vital during the Berlin Airlift.
Flight operations ceased in 2008, and after public protests and referendums, the site was converted into a public park in 2010.
Place Guide
Former Airport Runways1922-2008
The expansive runways of the former Tempelhof Airport now serve as open spaces for biking, skating, kite flying, and various recreational activities, preserving the site's aviation heritage.
Airport Terminal Building1936-1941
The iconic airport terminal, built between 1936 and 1941, is a monumental example of Nazi-era architecture and now stands as a historic landmark within the park.
Park Entrances
There are ten entrances to the park, including six along the eastern end of the former runways and others near Tempelhof station and Columbiadamm, providing convenient access from various parts of Berlin.
Contact
Phone: 030 700906710
