A visit to the Sanssouci palace
Sanssouci palace, located in Potsdam, sheds light on the personal life of King Frederick, the Great, King of Prussia. With its playful exterior, it is a highly recommended day trip from Berlin.
Small house on the vineyard
Sanssouci was the summer residence of King Frederick, the Great: A small palace on a vineyard with 12 rooms decorated in intimate Rococo design of the 18th century. The palace highlights the harmony between art and nature and was constructed based on sketches drawn up by the King himself.
Summer retreat fit for the King
'Sans souci' in French literally translates to ''without concerns''. The palace was aptly named by King Frederick for it was his sanctuary for refuge and leisure. The King could immerse himself in art and music, entertain guests and escape the tedious official affairs of the state.
Magnificent but intimate dwellings
The interiors of the palace are adorned with marble statues, gold-framed paintings and ceilings with glistening chandeliers. King Frederick was personally involved in the design and layout of his home. His contribution to the Rococo style led to the development of a new branch called ''Frederician Rococo'', named after him.
The Marble Hall
The main reception room, the Marble Hall was the heart of the palace. The glistening dome and marble columns along with the arch headed windows facing the gardens created a beautiful setting for entertaining guests with parties and celebrations.
The Music Room
King Frederick was a patron of music and popular for hosting concerts at Sanssouci Palace. He was a talented musician himself and is known to have composed more than 100 sonatas for the flute and four symphonies.
The Voltaire Room
This guestroom is lavishly decorated with woodcarvings of flowers, fruits and animals spreading out across the ceiling and walls. Due to the elaborate interiors, the room is always associated with the King's favorite guest: Voltaire, even though the famous philosopher never stayed here. The room was completed in 1753, after Voltaire had departed following disagreements with Frederick.
Home in old age
In the later part of his life, King Frederick - affectionately nicknamed 'Old Fritz'- was diagnosed with gout. Due to the illness, he had trouble moving and therefore spent a lot of time in his study, sitting on this armchair at Sanssouci Palace. This is also where he passed away on 17th August, 1786, aged 74.
May he rest in peace
King Frederick's wish was to be buried in a crypt on the vineyard terrace of his beloved Sanssouci. However, his successor entombed him in the Garrison Church, beside his father. His last wish was finally fulfilled, on the 205th anniversary of his death on 17th August, 1991 with his re-burial. Frederick, The Great is now laid to rest on the highest terrace of Sanssouci Palace.