Within the borders of Frankfurt’s city center, it’s not as easy to find some green spots, especially if you don’t know where to look for them.
Between Konstablerwache and Berger Straße (a very nice shopping street in Bornheim) the Bethmannpark is a hidden gem.
As the park is surrounded by a wall and only has a few entrance gates, it isn’t very obvious even if you pass by. But once you have found your way (just keep walking along the walls on Friedberger Landstraße or Friedberger Anlage), you will forget that major traffic roads pass by right next to the park.
The Bethmannpark has many neat flowerbeds and plant arrangements along the broad walkways. Many benches are inviting to sit down and relax, especially on sunny days. It’s fun to watch groups of elder men playing outdoor chess on a huge chessboard on the ground. There is also a small playground for children. Sorry; dogs and bicycles have to stay outside.
Until last summer, the even more peaceful “Garten des himmlischen Friedens” (Translation: garden of heavenly peace, in memory of the Tian’anmen Square protests of 1989), a little Chinese garden behind some white walls and a large wooden gate within the middle of the park was my favorite spot there.
The original Chinese pavilion (as shown on the picture) sadly was burned down. They will be rebuilt, but it will take some time.
Nevertheless, Bethmannpark is still very inviting. If you like photo sessions, the park offers the perfect scenery, too.
