Schloss Pfaueninsel Set to Reopen with a Year of Thematic Events

The renowned Lustschloss on Pfaueninsel, a beloved destination for both tourists and locals in Berlin, is set to reopen on May 25 following an extensive renovation period. This reopening marks the end of a multi-year closure aimed at restoring the historic structure, which dates back to 1794.

In celebration of the reopening, the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg has announced a thematic year focused on islands, running from May to October. The foundation will offer a variety of activities including guided tours, special event days, workshops, and nature walks, all designed to enrich the visitor experience.

Additionally, similar island-themed events will occur at other foundation sites, such as Charlottenburg Palace and Sanssouci Park. The foundation aims to draw attention to the unique cultural and natural heritage of these locations.

Looking ahead, the foundation is also preparing to implement an entrance fee for part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanssouci Park in Potsdam, with plans for this to take effect in the 2026 season. Discussions are currently underway with the city of Potsdam regarding the specifics of the fee structure, which may include annual passes priced at EUR20, discounted at EUR12, and daily tickets ranging from EUR2 to EUR3.

Currently, the city of Potsdam provides an annual subsidy of EUR800,000 to the foundation for park maintenance, a practice expected to cease by January 2026. Consequently, the introduction of an entry fee aims to offset this loss of funding.

In positive news, the foundation reported a resurgence in visitor numbers in 2024, with over 1.4 million visits recorded, reflecting an increase of more than nine percent compared to the previous year. While some locations in the Brandenburg region experienced a slight decline, the trend within the Berlin palaces continues to rise.

The reopening of Schloss Pfaueninsel and the associated thematic events signify a renewed interest in Berlin's rich historical landscapes, providing both educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.