Kampenwerder, Island in Schaalsee Lake, Germany
Kampenwerder is an island in Schaalsee Lake with an elongated shape and low-lying terrain. The site contains open fields, walking paths, and several structures including the former border checkpoint now converted into a dining establishment.
After Germany's division, the island became a closely monitored border zone with a checkpoint controlling entry. The fall of the Wall ended this restricted period and opened the island to public access.
The site today shows how the border checkpoint operated and how people lived with this division. Walking around, visitors can see the remnants of this separated existence in the landscape itself.
The island is reached via a causeway equipped with walking and cycling paths for easy access. Wear suitable footwear as paths can be slippery, and bring weather-appropriate clothing since conditions can change quickly.
During the division, the island was completely cut off from the West and inhabited by only a small number of residents. This isolation allowed nature to flourish relatively undisturbed, preserving certain rare plant species in this secluded location.
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