5) Humidity

In its geological history Tiergarten is richly wet. Part of it is situated in the floodplain along the Spree, the deeply set area of Warsaw-Berlin glacial valley. It is especially evident now because of the complex network of streams running from the Landwehrkanal towards the Spree. After a strong summer rain, when dust and pollens are washed away, heavy with water particles the atmosphere acquires tropical qualities. Tall poplars, linden trees and beeches with textured trunks shine in long views, while in the lower levels thick holly bushes, among others, give out dusky blue hues.

Between a rhododendron grove and a stream there is a hidden green salle d’eau, a makeshift bathroom, but luxuriously Rococo in spirit. A towel is hanging to dry from some branches, it smells good and fresh; a shampoo bottle is secured in moss. The former Tiergarten’s director, Christoph Schaaf, tells that a writer, out of necessity and feeling more than human, spent one year living here. Many spend their summer’s nights in this location. They keep a good shave and during the season their clothes turn strategically to dark green and grey.

(This story is based on a research by Dorothee Hahn and Daniela Mehlich)

In its geological history Tiergarten is richly wet. Part of it is situated in the floodplain along the Spree, the deeply set area of Warsaw-Berlin glacial valley. It is especially evident now because of the complex network of streams running from the Landwehrkanal towards the Spree. After a strong summer rain, when dust and pollens are washed away, heavy with water particles the atmosphere acquires tropical qualities. Tall poplars, linden trees and beeches with textured trunks shine in long views, while in the lower levels thick holly bushes, among others, give out dusky blue hues.

Between a rhododendron grove and a stream there is a hidden green salle d’eau, a makeshift bathroom, but luxuriously Rococo in spirit. A towel is hanging to dry from some branches, it smells good and fresh; a shampoo bottle is secured in moss. The former Tiergarten’s director, Christoph Schaaf, tells that a writer, out of necessity and feeling more than human, spent one year living here. Many spend their summer’s nights in this location. They keep a good shave and during the season their clothes turn strategically to dark green and grey.

(This story is based on a research by Dorothee Hahn and Daniela Mehlich)