Wzgórze Bendera

Wzgórze Bendera (Bender's Hill) is an artificial hill in the Park Południowy (Southern Park) in Wrocław, 131 metres above sea level. It was formed from surplus soil excavated during the construction of the embankment for the freight railway ring line, at the same time as the park itself was being laid out.

How the hill was formed

The creators of Park Południowy decided to use the surplus soil from the railway embankment construction to heap up a hill with a garden of mountain plants. Erratic boulders imitating a mountain landscape were arranged on the summit, and among the evergreen shrubs pines, spruces and junipers were planted, alongside beeches typical of mountain areas.

The gazebo on the summit

In 1898 a gazebo made of larch wood was built on the summit of the hill, known as the von Wallenberg pavilion. From the gazebo it was possible to admire the panorama of Wrocław and the Ślęża Massif. The gazebo burned down in a fire and was rebuilt in 2022. Today, due to the growth of the trees, the hill no longer has its former scenic qualities.

Origin of the name

The hill owes its name to Mayor Georg Bender, in recognition of his contribution to the development of Wrocław. After 1945 the elevation had no Polish name for a long time; the current name is a translation of the German one.

Nearby

Within a few kilometres of the hill is the Old Jewish Cemetery in Wrocław.

A little further, in the centre of Wrocław, is also the Wrocław Aquapark.

Practical information

• The hill lies in Park Południowy, in the Borek district of Wrocław.
• The park is open to the public, free of charge.
• Expect a small, wooded hill with a gazebo on top, without a wide view due to the tall trees.