Frederick the Great’s grave at Sanssouci
Why 1991
Frederick wanted the terrace and the dogs. His successor put him in the Potsdam Garrison Church instead, and there he stayed through two centuries, a war, and a division of Germany that left Potsdam on the eastern side. Reunification made the move possible, and on 17 August 1991 the coffin came to the terrace he had chosen. The greyhounds’ graves are beside him. The terrace is the same one you cross on leaving the palace interior, which is why nearly everyone finds it without looking.
Why potatoes
Frederick pushed potato cultivation in Prussia, and the potato became the thing people bring him. There are usually a few on the slab, sometimes a small heap, occasionally one with a note. It is the least formal royal grave I know and the better for it.
Napoleon and the hats
The story goes that Napoleon, having defeated Prussia, visited Frederick’s then-tomb in the Garrison Church in October 1806 and told his marshals: “Hats off, gentlemen. If he were still alive, we would not be here.” Whether he said it in exactly those words is a question for historians; the guides on the City and Castles tour tell it at the terrace, and it gets the reaction it deserves.
Come on a Monday if you only want the grave and the terraces. The palace is closed, the crowds are gone, and the slab has had a weekend’s worth of potatoes.
A guide at the graveside
The 3-hour City and Castles tour from Potsdam Hauptbahnhof stops at the terraces and the grave, with the New Palace and the Glienicke Bridge on the same route.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Frederick the Great buried?
On the top terrace of Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam, beside his greyhounds, since 17 August 1991. Before that he lay in the Potsdam Garrison Church. The terrace is in the free park; see the park page.
Do I need a ticket to see Frederick’s grave?
No. The grave is on the terrace outside the palace, in the park, which is free and open daily from 8 am. Only the palace interior needs a ticket; see do you need tickets.
Why are there potatoes on Frederick the Great’s grave?
Because he promoted potato growing in Prussia, and leaving one has become the custom. Bring your own, or admire the pile.