Discover the Oderbruch: Europe's cultural heritage in Brandenburg!

Discover the Oderbruch: Europe's cultural heritage in Brandenburg!

The Oderbruch, an impressive cultural landscape and the largest populated river polder in Europe, stretches from Brandenburg to the Polish Amazonia. This region, known for its fertile soils and picturesque views, was the first cultural landscape to be awarded the European Heritage Label in 2022 and is a real insider tip for nature lovers and history buffs.

True to the motto “no pain, no gain,” the mammoth project that shaped the region began in 1747 with the straightening of the Oder river under King Frederick II. The Prussian King, also known as “Old Fritz,” wanted to gain new land for agriculture after costly wars. Over the next six years, 32,500 hectares of fertile farmland were reclaimed from the swamp, making the area the granary of Prussia and the vegetable garden of Berlin.

A visit to the model village of Neulietzegöricke

The first of 40 new villages, Neulietzegöricke, was founded in 1753. With its pretty half-timbered houses and well-kept church, it is a wonderful example of the cultural landscape. Former mayor Horst Wilke shows interested guests the village and has many stories from when the first settlers landed here. A popular destination for tourists is the “Kolonisten Kaffee”, where Martina Herrlich-Gryzan’s specialties have been delighting visitors for years.

But the Oderbruch has even more to offer: a sophisticated system of water veins, pumping stations and dikes ensures that the region is largely protected from floods even today. A remarkable infrastructure of 1,300 kilometers of water pipes and 2,600 kilometers of drainage guarantees the fertility of these soils, which are also considered the region's culinary heritage.

If you're looking for adventure, you can cycle over to the Europa Bridge in Neurüdnitz. As a beautiful crossing between Germany and Poland, this bridge not only offers spectacular views, but is also a symbol of overcoming borders in Europe. The connection between the two countries is supplemented by the paddle wheel ferry “Bez Granic”, which was out of service for many years in 1945, but now carries 15,000 guests annually.

Memories of the past

Places steeped in history such as the Oderbruch Museum in Altranft and the lively exchange in the “Theater am Rand” in Zollbrücke convey the stories and traditions of the region to those interested. The Children of Golzow, a documentary about a country school class that was filmed over several decades, is just one highlight among many. These films are not only entertainment, but also valuable contemporary evidence that illustrates the changes in this region.

A trip to Neuhardenberg takes you back to Friedrich II, who gave the estate to his captain von Prittwitz in 1763. The king's first monument can be found here, which still commemorates his achievements today. An impressive marble statue testifies to its importance and the influence of the Oderbruch, which can still be felt today.

In Küstrin there is also the opportunity to buy fresh fish directly from the fisherman. André Schneider, who is a sixth-generation fisherman, specializes in catfish. He is happy to pass on his knowledge and experience to visitors who, in addition to the fish, would like to get to know the tradition of smoking.

Whether it's a cultural journey of discovery or culinary delights, the Oderbruch not only attracts tourists, but also ensures a lively exchange between people from different countries. It's worth discovering this pearl-rich region and enjoying the variety of experiences.

Anyone planning a visit will find numerous accommodation options, from small inns to special accommodation such as wagons or shepherd's wagons. Whether for a short trip or a longer stay, the Oderbruch offers something for every taste.

Getting there is easy with the Berlin regional train or the regional bus lines, which take you to the most popular attractions in the area. A worthwhile destination for nature lovers, history lovers and those interested in culinary delights alike.