Sanssouci Park welcomes 35 sheep to graze its historic meadows this season
Sanssouci Park will welcome its first 35 sheep of the season on 1 April 2023. The animals will graze across 35 hectares of grassland until November, helping to maintain the historic landscape. This eco-friendly approach replaces heavy machinery and reduces diesel emissions. The sheep belong to the Swedish Gutefår breed, known for their hardiness and distinctive spiral horns. Both rams and ewes carry these curled horns, making them easily recognisable. Their undemanding nature suits conservation work, as they thrive in open landscapes.
A shepherdess oversees the flock daily, checking their health and providing fresh water. The animals will roam designated areas, and visitors are reminded not to feed them or enter the grazing zones. The Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg (SPSG) introduced sheep grazing in 2018. Since then, the method has been used at Sanssouci Park and Charlottenburg Palace. By avoiding heavy mowers, the foundation prevents soil compaction and cuts fuel use. Those wishing to support the project can sponsor a sheep for €200. The donations help fund the grazing initiative and maintain the historic grounds.
The sheep will remain in Sanssouci Park for eight months, managing the meadows naturally. Their presence reduces the need for machinery while preserving the landscape's character. The programme continues to grow, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional maintenance methods.
