Das Buddhistische Haus

Europe's oldest Buddhist temple stands on the northern outskirts of Frohnau. The Buddhist House is located on a wooded hill, surrounded by a well-tended garden, and is so quiet that the city completely disappears for a few hours.

The Buddhist House in Frohnau

The path up itself is an experience. Through the elaborate Elephant Gate, you enter the grounds, then 73 steps lead upwards over eight landings, symbolizing the Eightfold Path. Once at the top, the city suddenly seems far away.

The simple temple, an extensive library, and a well-kept garden are located on Frohnau’s highest elevation. Statues and small shrines stand between the paths, and people sit on the lawns with a book or simply in silence. Mostly birds and rustling leaves can be heard.

Meditation, Community, and Deceleration

The Buddhist House is considered the oldest and largest Theravada Buddhist center in Europe and is a protected monument. Between 1922 and 1924, the Berlin physician and writer Paul Dahlke had the complex built, bringing a piece of Asia to the northern outskirts of the city.

The main reason for a visit lies in the program. Meditation meetings, lectures, and courses according to Theravada teachings are open to everyone, in addition to a ten-day silent retreat and full-day mindfulness days. Even without participation, the trip is worthwhile: The grounds are open during the day, admission is free, and the S-Bahn stops in Frohnau just a few minutes’ walk away.