Falkensee is a small town by a lake in the Brandenburg region of Germany. It shares a border on the west with the capital city of Berlin.
This city has a rather tragic and turbulent past. The most recent is from, of course, the Nazi regime of the 1930s and 40s. At this time, Falkensee was the site of a branch of the Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Almost three thousand people were imprisoned here and forced into hard labor.
The citizens of Falkensee have not forgotten the terrible history of the Nazis. The cemetery holds a memorial monument for the victims of this time. Today there is an exchange program between the city and Ma’alot, Israel that seeks redemption and understanding between these countries.
Even prior to this dark period in its history, it hasn’t had an easy time. In 1675, the town burned to the ground. In 1806, the northern part of the town was again ablaze. And again in 1822, Falkensee was consumed by flames. Because of its fiery past, any written chronologies of the town have long ago turned to ash.
But let us turn now to Falkensee’s brighter present and future! Each year, there is a delectable festival held in the honor of baking bread. A large, two-hundred-year-old oven, located in the garden of the town history museum, is turned on. Residents and guests break bread together and celebrate.
The House at the Meadow is another attraction. This old building once housed Falkensee’s school. Today it serves as a cultural center for kids and young adults.
Much beautiful nature awaits you here too. In fact, the town name literally translates as “falcon lake” so it makes perfect sense that you can see both of those things here. There is a falcon refuge center for the threatened species. And be sure to take a leisurely stroll around the idyllic lake too.
