15 Years UNESCO World Natural Heritage Ancient Beech Forests – Anniversary Year Jasmund

15 Years World Natural Heritage

In 2011, the ancient beech forests of Jasmund National Park were recognised by UNESCO as World Natural Heritage sites within the "Ancient Beech Forests of Germany". 2026 marks the 15th anniversary of this designation – an occasion that the Königsstuhl National Park Centre is celebrating with a special anniversary year.

A Year Full of Programmes

The National Park Centre is organising the anniversary year with numerous formats. The focus is on special exhibitions such as "We Are Europe's Wilderness" and "Ancient Beech Forests near Wissower Klinken", which can be seen in early summer. In addition, there are guided tours, interactive activities, and a UNESCO World Heritage event day that conveys the importance of the natural heritage.

The Beech Forests of Jasmund

The ancient beech forests on the Jasmund peninsula are among the last near-natural lowland beech forests in Europe. They grow directly on the chalk coast of Rügen Island, where the Königsstuhl stands as a landmark above the Baltic Sea. This combination of forest and chalk cliffs makes the National Park unique and justifies its World Heritage status.

Natural Heritage for the Region

Jasmund National Park is located near Sassnitz in the Vorpommern-Rügen district in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The anniversary year is not only a celebration but also an invitation to reflect on the protection of wilderness. With exhibitions, guided tours, and event days, the Königsstuhl National Park Centre brings visitors closer to the responsibility for this World Heritage site.