A multi-year renovation plan aims to secure the historic ensemble
The city council of Darmstadt has approved a multi-year renovation plan for the roofs of the Waldfriedhof cemetery. The aim is to preserve the listed buildings in the long term and to prevent further damage to the historic structure.
The Waldfriedhof cemetery was laid out in 1914 according to plans by the then city building councilor August Buxbaum and is one of Darmstadt's important cultural monuments.
Damage to several parts of the building
The planned measures were triggered by significant damage to various buildings within the cemetery complex. The renovation of the East Funeral Hall was particularly urgent, as moisture damage had caused parts of the cornice to detach.
To ensure the safety of visitors, the roof renovation of the East Funeral Hall was carried out before the frost period of 2025/2026.
Renovation in several construction phases
Due to the tight budget situation, the renovation will be carried out in stages.
The restoration of the eastern colonnade is planned for 2026. The attic wall and drainage system in particular show significant damage.
The western colonnade is scheduled to follow in 2027. Emergency stabilization measures have already had to be installed on this part of the building to eliminate any danger to visitors.
The current renovation program will conclude with the roof renovation of the West Funeral Hall in 2028.
More work will follow
Additional measures will be necessary after the roof work is completed. Among other things, plastered facades and concrete columns have been damaged by penetrating moisture.
However, these works are not part of the now-approved renovation plan.
Preservation of cultural monuments for the long term
Head of Parks and Green Spaces Michael Kolmer emphasizes the importance of the project: “The forest cemetery is a significant cultural monument and a very special place. With the now-approved renovation plan, we are creating the fundamental conditions to permanently preserve the horseshoe-shaped layout of the forest cemetery and improve the quality of the visitor experience.”
Following approval by the city council, the next construction phases will be prepared and implemented.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk)
