Schlossinsel, Nature reserve and park in Köpenick, Berlin, Germany.
Schlossinsel is a protected nature reserve in Köpenick featuring woodlands, meadows, and waterside habitats along the Spree River. The island also holds historic structures and provides layered landscapes where water, vegetation, and old buildings coexist.
Construction of the castle began in 1677 as a residence for Brandenburg's rulers, leaving a lasting mark on the landscape. The site later transformed into a nature reserve while preserving its architectural heritage for visitors to see today.
The island serves as a place where Berliners experience nature without leaving the city, making environmental protection tangible and present in daily life. You can observe how the community values and interacts with this green space as both refuge and outdoor gathering ground.
Access the site by S-Bahn train to Köpenick station, then a short walk brings you to the reserve. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for outdoor conditions, as paths wind through natural areas and alongside river banks.
The reserve shelters rare bird and amphibian species that are otherwise difficult to spot in Berlin's urban environment. These creatures benefit from the protected waterside habitats and undisturbed woodland areas the island provides.
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