Bittschriftenlinde Potsdam, Historical petition tree at City Palace, Germany
The Bittschriftenlinde stands at the southern corner of the Brandenburg State Parliament building on Humboldtstrasse in central Potsdam. The current linden tree was planted in 1993 and was temporarily relocated during construction before being returned to its original location in 2015.
King Frederick II of Prussia regularly received citizen petitions beneath this tree, which was visible from his study window in the City Palace. This practice made the tree a symbol of direct petition between people and ruler during the Prussian era.
The tree symbolizes direct communication between citizens and rulers, as people would attach their written requests directly to its branches. This practice reflects a historical form of civic dialogue that remains part of how the place is remembered today.
The tree is located in a central area and is easily accessible on foot, positioned next to the Parliament building near other attractions. A modern information panel with a data code allows visitors to access additional historical information through their mobile phones.
The original tree where Frederick II sat no longer exists, but its legacy was preserved by continuously replanting at the same location. This passing of the torch from tree to tree makes the site a living monument to historical dialogue.
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