On 29 August 1929, the first official German shortwave radio broadcast was transmitted from Zeesen. This precise date sits alongside a history that goes back to airship construction at the beginning of the 20th century. Lake Zeesener See and the Tonteiche ponds in the Körbiskrug residential area add a scenic focus. Together, historic technology and water represent different aspects of the town.

From Airship Construction to Broadcasting History

At the beginning of the 20th century, Zeesen was home to an airship works. Schütte-Lanz airships were built there, designed by Johann Schütte with streamlined forms. Airship construction thus marks an early chapter in the town’s history of technology.

Construction of a large radio station began in Zeesen at the end of 1926. Longwave transmitters went into operation in December 1927. On 29 August 1929, the first official German shortwave radio broadcast was transmitted from Zeesen. The sequence runs from the start of construction to longwave operations and then shortwave transmission, making the broadcasting history clear through three specific dates.

The themes provide a useful way to distinguish the chapters in Zeesen’s history of technology: the airship works focused on design and construction, while the later broadcasting dates concern the station, longwave transmitters and transmission. These are different technological chapters, each with its own dates, rather than a single event.

Recreational Waters in Zeesen

Lake Zeesener See and the Tonteiche ponds in the Körbiskrug residential area are considered attractive recreational waters for local residents and day visitors. Compared with the dated technology-related themes, they offer a different way to experience Zeesen: here, the focus is on the recreational landscape. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Zeesen, you can consider whether the town’s technological history or its connection to the water will shape your stay more.

Königs Wusterhausen as the Wider Context

The wider destination of Königs Wusterhausen has its own historical and scenic themes. Schloss Königs Wusterhausen served as Friedrich Wilhelm I’s seat of government and was a meeting place for the legendary Tobacco Cabinet. The Dahmeland Museum features a permanent exhibition on the history of the Dahmeland region and the town of Königs Wusterhausen, complemented by changing special exhibitions. Three museums in Königs Wusterhausen tell the town’s story from different perspectives and are within walking distance of the train station.

Today, the Tiergarten is a diverse mixed deciduous forest and nature reserve; it was established in 1725 as a game preserve for the Soldier King. The 7.5-kilometre Tiergarten circular route starts and ends at Königs Wusterhausen station or at the hiking car parks by the Tiergarten. Ten wooden sculptures along the route bring aspects of local history to life. At the orchard meadow, the route takes in the stone circle “The Twelve Wise Ones,” with a barefoot path, balance beam and rest area. It also passes quiet stretches of the banks of the Staabe and Lake Krimnicksee. Sights along the way also include Husareneck and Spukbrücke.

Discover more destinations: Ziegenhals, Senzig.

Back to the wider travel overview: Königs Wusterhausen.