Trabrennbahn Mariendorf
Where every horse runs
Which sulky will be the first to cross the finish line? A day at this racetrack in Mariendorf offers exciting entertainment for fans of equestrian sports and those experiencing it for the first time.
"I still have a suitcase in Berlin, I'm always drawn there from time to time. And when I'm standing on the Ma'Damm and see all the horses loafing, I know I belong there!"
This is how the Mariendorf harness racing track was sung about in an old pop song. And even today it is still a popular destination for equestrian sports enthusiasts and for anyone who wants to spend an entertaining day at the racecourse.
At the racecourse
The Mariendorf harness racing track is one of the most successful harness racing tracks in Germany, hosting over 650 races a year. And it is also one of the most beautiful facilities: chestnut trees surround the 32 stables on the 24-hectare site. The Art Nouveau grandstand, which fortunately survived the war, is an ornate feast for the eyes.
The 32 stables alone are worth a visit, combining historic half-timbered buildings with the modern architectural style of the wooden stables. More than 800 horses can be accommodated here. There are various small inns on the grounds where you can stop for a bite to eat, such as the Traberpause or Champions Teehaus.
History of the racecourse
The Mariendorf harness racing track was officially opened in 1913 as the most modern trotting facility in Germany. The trotting track experienced a second heyday in the post-war years. The German Trotting Derby has been held in Mariendorf since 1952. The battle for the 'Blue Riband' is regarded as the biggest trotting event in Germany. The German Trotting Derby ends the Derby Week, which now lasts eight racing days.
The grandstand building was opened in Mariendorf in 1972. The five-storey building offers space for 5,000 guests and, with its glass front, is one of the most modern grandstand buildings at German racecourses.
The Derby Week
The most important German trotting race and one of the most important harness racing events in the world is the Derby Week, which has been held at the Berlin-Mariendorf trotting track for over 100 years. It lasts eight days.
Mariendorf
In the south of Berlin, things get quieter and more tranquil. The village was founded in 1230. The biggest highlight is certainly the harness racing track, but you will also find the Memorial site of the Marienfelde emergency reception centre. More than 1.3 million GDR refugees were housed and cared for here.
You can find out more about Berlin's neighbourhoods in our Berlin app Going Local.
