Dinner tarmac-side

Berlin Templehof Airport was a fully functioning airport only a few years ago. It ceased operating in 2008 as Berlin's other airports took over the city's commercial flights. Berlin Templehof was constructed in 1927, was one of the world's oldest airports, and it played a major role during and after World War II, most notably being the only way for food and basic essentials to be brought into the city when Soviet authorities blocked all shipments by land and water.

The layout of the park, with special areas reserved for bird-life

In May 2010, the now-defunct airport was opened as a city park. So last night, after a day of touring the sights of the city, we packed up a picnic and headed on down to the airfield. In the top photo, you can see the runway in the background as we enjoy our picnic of cheeses, sausages, pickles, wine, beer and all the other goodies you would expect in this part of the world.

The only flights over this airport now are model planes

Around us were people doing all sorts of activities - picnicking (like us), cycling, roller-blading, flying model aeroplanes and kites, and plenty more. It was all rather pleasant, that was, until the sun started to set (around 9:30pm) and a swarm of bugs descended on us.

Sam goes into super bug-swatting mode

After failed attempts to swat the bugs away (picture the three of us doing the bug-swatting silly dance) we eventually packed up our picnic and headed home. Nevertheless, we had a lovely dinner and its fantastic to see this inner-city space being used by the people.