A verdant haven nestled amidst Dresden's contemporary district
In the heart of Dresden's Neustadt, a Garden of Eden-inspired oasis has bloomed, bringing a touch of serenity and cultural significance to the vibrant neighbourhood. The inauguration of this beautiful garden took place on July 19th, marking the culmination of months of hard work and collaboration.
At the heart of this project is Dr. Herbert Lappe, an IT consultant and a long-standing member of the Jewish community in Dresden. Born in London in 1946 to Jewish emigrants, Dr. Lappe moved to Dresden in the GDR and has since been deeply involved in the city's Jewish life. He was particularly moved by the creation of the Eden Garden, which is nestled just a few meters away from the old Leipzig station, a poignant reminder of the dark chapter in history where Jews and Jewish women were deported during the NS era.
The idea for the garden originated from Jakob Lindenthal, a doctoral student at TU Dresden. Initially, the project seemed quite ambitious due to the rubble-strewn plot of land. However, with Dr. Lappe's support and the power of personal initiative and real teamwork, the garden began to take shape. Jakob drafted a rough plan and called for help in WhatsApp groups of the community.
Tasks included removing rubble, clearing weeds, bringing plants, and sowing grass. Many guests, including members of the Jewish community and local volunteers, contributed to these efforts. The celebration on the day of the inauguration was filled with food, laughter, and singing with a guitar. Neustadt pizza, baked in a self-built pizza oven, was a delightful addition to the festivities.
Dr. Lappe extended a warm invitation to all neighbors to visit, relax, and enjoy the garden, stating that it is for everyone. He was particularly impressed by the achievement of this grassroots democracy project, a testament to the power of community spirit in Dresden's Neustadt.
Today, Jewish life is an integral part of the social fabric in Dresden's Neustadt. The Eden Garden replica serves as a symbol of this cultural revival, offering a tranquil space for reflection and connection. As Dr. Lappe did not mention whether God would have rested in the garden, it is up to each visitor to find their own peace and solace within its verdant embrace.
- Dr. Lappe, with a vision inspired by the biblical Eden, was keen on transforming the home-and-garden space nestled in the heart of Dresden's Neustadt, fostering a lifestyle of communal involvement and peace within the vibrant neighborhood.
- The Eden Garden, a home-and-garden project symbolizing cultural rejuvenation in Dresden's Neustadt, also serves as an open invitation to all residents and visitors alike, offering a tranquil escape where they can find their own sense of serenity and belonging within its lush confines.
