Central Cemetery in Szczecin (Hauptfriedhof before 1945) is the largest cemetery in Poland, the third largest in Europe, and among the largest globally. Established between 1899 and 1900, it was initially designed by Wilhelm Meyer-Schwartau, with its final layout completed by Georg Hannig in 1918. Spanning 172.33 hectares, the cemetery has become the final resting place for over 300,000 individuals.
A Garden-Like Design
Inspired by the Ohlsdorf Cemetery in Hamburg, the architecture of Central Cemetery combines multiple garden landscapes. The design aimed to resemble a park-garden, steering clear of the crowded layout typical of traditional cemeteries. Significant portions of the cemetery are dedicated to green spaces, water features, hedges, and wide avenues lined with decorative trees. The older eastern section of the cemetery features circular pathways that enhance the natural terrain.
Botanical Path
In October 2010, a botanical path was introduced in the eastern part of the cemetery. Along this path, 32 plaques provide information about various trees and shrubs. Starting and ending at the main gate, the path was developed by Dr. Marcin Kubus, offering visitors a unique way to explore the cemetery’s diverse flora.