Kladow is the southernmost district of Berlin’s Spandau borough, known for its rural charm despite being part of a major city. Here’s a brief overview of its history:

Early History: Kladow was first mentioned in documents in 1267 as “Clodow”, making it one of the oldest parts of Spandau. Archeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by Slavs as early as the 9th to 12th centuries, with findings of early medieval metalworking, including the famous “Kladower Silberfund” (Kladow Silver Hoard).
Middle Ages to Modern Times: After the Reformation in 1558, Kladow came under the jurisdiction of the Spandau office. It suffered significant devastation during the Thirty Years’ War. In the 17th and 18th centuries, private landowners controlled Kladow, and it saw agricultural development, including the planting of mulberry trees for silk production under royal decree.
19th Century Development: Intense settlement began in the early 19th century with the construction of a manor house in 1800 at Neu-Kladow and the rebuilding of the village church in 1818 after a devastating fire in 1808. The area started attracting wealthier Berliners who built villas along the Havel.
20th Century: Kladow was incorporated into Greater Berlin in 1920. During the Nazi era, a military airfield was built in 1934/1935, which was later used by the RAF as Gatow Airfield during the Berlin Airlift after WWII. Post-war, Kladow was in the British sector, and housing estates like the “Finnenhaussiedlung” were constructed in 1959/60 to address housing shortages.
Recent Developments: Kladow has managed to retain its village-like atmosphere. Recent developments include the transformation of part of the former Gatow airfield into residential areas like “Landstadt Gatow” and the establishment of the Cladow-Center, shifting some commercial activity away from the old village center. The area also boasts cultural landmarks like the Landhausgarten Dr. Max Fraenkel and hosts various cultural and historical sites, including the Military History Museum on the old airfield site.
Cultural Significance: Kladow celebrated its 750th anniversary in 2017, highlighting its long history. Its location by the Havel River and near the Groß Glienicker See makes it a spot for leisure activities like swimming, sailing, and fishing, maintaining its appeal as a place for relaxation within Berlin’s urban environment.

Kladow’s history reflects both its rural roots and its integration into the fabric of Berlin, offering a unique blend of historical and modern elements.

Quelle: Grok 10.12.2024